Patrick Vieira reveals why he has ruled himself out of running for Newcastle United job

Vieira has been one of the favourites with bookmakers to succeed Rafa Benitez at St James’s Park. However, the former Arsenal midfielder – who took over at the Allianz Riviera stadium last summer after a spell at New York City – says he has “no intention” of leaving the Ligue 1 club.

The 43-year-old said: “I am at Nice long-term. I have no intention of going elsewhere. I’ve always felt good here, and with the people around me. I can’t see myself anywhere other than Nice.”

Newcastle will this week start approaching potential successors ahead of the return of the squad for pre-season training on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Benitez – who left the club yesterday when his contract expired – today issued a statement explaining why he didn’t sign a new deal at the club.