Newcastle win Bernard case
The French full back claimed that he was only contracted to Newcastle until this summer and was free to sign for another club, something he did by agreeing a deal with West Ham last week.
This infuriated Newcastle, as they had thought that West Ham had agreed not to make a move for Bernard, after previously making an illegal approach. The North East club then reported the matter to the Premier League for arbitration last week.
Newcastle always claimed that they had an option to extend Bernard`s stay, taking him to 2003, and this is something Bobby Robson invoked - meaning the player has one more year on his Magpies contract.
A statement on Newcastle's website confirmed the news of their success and reiterated their stance that West Ham had clearly defied league rules over the matter.
Newcastle have told Bernard that he must return for pre-season training next week with the rest of the squad, despite the player's insistence that he wants to leave.
The club have told him they have 'no hard feelings' over the case, but the player is still not likely to be happy with the ruling.
West Ham could now make Newcastle an offer for the player's services, but it seems highly unlikely that the Tynesiders would be willing to do any negotiating with the East London side.
