Steve gained over 500 league appearances as a player. Six years in the Stoke City academy as a coach with UEFA B and youth module qualification.

Steve graduated through the Port Vale juniors, signing 1st team professional forms under manager John Rudge in June 1987.

After a good end of season he went onto Preston North End then onto Burnley and Doncaster Rovers. Harper was sold to Mansfield Town (pictured) and in 1999 he joined Hull City before finishing off with Darlington in 2001.

Steve cannot wait to get the lads going in pre-season and is looking forward to a great season.