Former defender Olivier Bernard believes Patrick Vieira would be a very good choice for the Newcastle United managerial post.

With the hapless John Carver all but set to be released this summer, the Magpies require a new manager for the 2015/16 campaign and beyond and it was recently reported that former Arsenal star Patrick Vieira was being considered by owner Mike Ashley.

While Vieira might not be the most experienced choice to choose from, Bernard has stated that the current Manchester City youth coach would be the best bet to manage Newcastle due to his vast experience as a player at the top level.

Bernard told the Chronicle: "He's the best bet. Patrick has played the game and won the lot. His philosophy of football is very good and having been with Arsene Wenger for many years he has ethics that are good enough to build on. We have seen with other players that were great that didn't go on and be good managers.

"It will be hard for him to be a better manager than a player because he has been one of the top players in the world. But he's got that work ethic which I like.

"The market we are going for - the French one - will help him enormously as well. Personally I think we need better French quality. Getting the second best or the cheapest option is not always the best way."