Vieira may extend contract

PATRICK VIEIRA has given the clearest indication yet that he will extend his contract with Arsenal.

The 26-year-old, who took over the captaincy at Highbury this summer after the retirement of Tony Adams, has been the subject of transfer speculation over the past few seasons. But, in an interview with France Football, Vieira revealed he had already begun talking to the club about securing his future with Arsenal.

"I have entered negotiations to extend my contract, which expires in 2004," he said. "I am taking part in talks to find a common ground and I cannot see any reason why I shouldn't stay."

Meantime, Auxerre striker Djibrill Cisse is out of tomorrow night's Champions league match against the Gunners because of a foot injury.

The French international had missed the first two games of the tournament and is doubtful for the national team who host Slovenia in a 2004 European championship qualifier on October 12. Cisse could be replaced by the gifted Mwaruwari Benjani of Zimbabwe who has scored six goals in league matches since the season started.

Benjani confirmed he was a skilful goalmaker when he slotted the first goal in his side's 4-1 victory at Nantes at the weekend.