Former Newcastle United defender Olivier Bernard has expressed his belief that Patrick Vieira is the right man to take the managerial vacancy at St James' Park.

The Frenchman, who spent nine years at Arsenal during his playing career, will reportedly hold talks with the Magpies, who installed John Carver as a temporary boss following Alan Pardew's exit in January.

Vieira joined Manchester City's coaching department when he retired from playing in 2011 and is currently in charge of the club's Elite Development squad.

"He's the best bet," Bernard told the Chronicle. "Patrick has played the game and won the lot. His philosophy of football is very good and having been with (Arsenal manager) Arsene Wenger for many years he has ethics that are good enough to build on."

The Magpies sealed survival on the final day of the Premier League season on May 24 with a 2-0 win over West Ham United.