French midfield ace Olivier Bernard has ended speculation over his future by agreeing to sign a new contract with The Magpies.

Benard who was “tapped up” two weeks ago by an unnamed Premiership club according to Bobby Robson has now put pen to paper on a new long-term contract.

It is understood Bernard refused the first contract offered to him by the club, but has now accepted an improved offer.

Bernard himself today confirmed the news. A delighted Frenchman beamed "I love the city and we have a good team. I want to sign and Newcastle want me to sign, so everything's OK. It's better for me to stay because I'm settled here.''