Bernard's Hammers appeal rejected

By Matthew Jones
July 8 2002

Olivier Bernard has signed a new three-year deal with The Magpies after his bid to move to West Ham was today rejected by the Football League.

Olivier Bernard has signed a new three-year deal with The Magpies after his bid to move to West Ham was today rejected by the Football League.

The left-back was keen to conclude a free transfer move to The Hammers in search of regular first-team football as he believed he was out of contract with Sir Bobby Robson's side.

However, a Premier League tribunal has today decided that Bernard is still contracted to Newcastle after the defender appealed against last week's decision by an appointed arbitrator that he would not be able to sign for Glenn Roeder's outfit.

And, despite recently declaring that he would find it 'very difficult' to return to the North-East, The Magpies have also claimed that the Frenchman has this afternoon put pen to paper on a new three-year deal with United.

A statement from the club read: "Olivier Bernard's appeal with the Football League Appeals Committee was dismissed this afternoon and Olivier left the appeal as he entered it, a Newcastle United player.

"Olivier has confirmed his commitment to Newcastle United having signed a new three year contract with the club this afternoon."

Speaking before the original verdict last week, Bernard said: "Whatever happens, I don't want to play for Newcastle United and I would find it very difficult to go back now.

"I'm confident that common sense will prevail and I'll be able to play for West Ham in the new season."

But the star, who made just four first-team starts in the league for The Magpies last season, will now be aiming to line up for Newcastle in their opening Premiership fixture, which ironically takes place against The Hammers at St James' Park.