Bernard makes u-turn to sign Newcastle deal

Olivier Bernard has staged a remarkable about-turn to sign a new three-year contract at Newcastle.

The 22-year-old signed after seeing his appeal against a decision that he was still a United player in the face of West Ham's attempts to sign him dismissed.

"Olivier Bernard's appeal with the Football League Appeals Committee was dismissed and Olivier left the appeal as he entered it, a Newcastle United player," said a club spokesman.

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

Bernard's decision to stay on Tyneside represents a major change of heart following United's furious reaction to his dealings with West Ham.

The Magpies were convinced they had an option on the player which extends to the end of the new season, but his advisors believed that he was a free agent this summer and set up a three-year deal with the Upton Park club.

However, Newcastle, who alleged that Glenn Roeder's side had made an earlier approach during last season, complained to the Premier League.

Their appointed arbitrator ruled in United's favour last month, sparking Bernard's appeal, which has now been rejected.

West Ham insisted that they had done nothing wrong, but their hopes of signing the left-sided former Lyon player, who can line up either in defence or midfield, now appear to have been dashed.