Bernard/Souness - Contract Issues

By Matthew Jones
December 13 2004

Newcastle boss Graeme Souness is refusing to offer Olivier Bernard more than he has already offered, saying, "It's a great offer. If Olivier's got something better and at more money, he's a very, very lucky boy."

A report in the Sunday Mirror suggests that the deal offered to Bernard is worth £25,000-a-week and staff at the club are confused as to why the French left-back is refusing to sign.

Graeme Souness said: "It's a great offer. If Olivier's got something better and at more money, he's a very, very lucky boy.

"Left-backs are hard to find and Olivier has got potential. He's a young man who should only get better."

Bernard said: "I'm not really any nearer to securing my future. Just show me the contract. For now I don't find it difficult not knowing what the future holds - as long as I'm playing football I'm happy."

"I have said before that if I have to go, then I will. Until then I will continue to do my very best in a black and white shirt."

On Europe, Bernard added: "No, no, it's not too late. We just need to get a good run to get back like we did the season before.

"We are a bit more under pressure because we went to the semi-final of the UEFA Cup last season and we were fifth in the table, so this season we have got to get that fourth spot minimum."