Inter Milan midfielder Patrick Vieira has ruled out a return to England but has kept his options open to play in France.

The former Arsenal captain says he has been named in rumours linking him with a return to England but he said he cannot see himself doing so.

"As soon as I let people know I intend to carry on playing, people started talking about a return to France or England," he said.

"I want to stay at Inter. I feel happy here. That desire has to be shared by everyone, but I am not looking for a departure.

"To me it is almost certain that I will stay. I can't see myself, for example, going back to England to play for a club in the middle of the table or fighting for survival.

"I would prefer to join a team in France fighting for the national title. That would be logical. Considering the World Cup is coming up, it is vital that I play next season."