Ex-Newcastle star starts coaching career with Darlington

Former Newcastle United defender Olivier Bernard is keen to start his coaching career with basement side Darlington.

The Frenchman made his Football League bow in a loan spell with the Quakers before going on to make his name for the St James' Park club.

He told the Northern Echo: "Hopefully I will be fully qualified in a year or so and my aim is to eventually get a job coaching in the Premier League.

"Next month I'm due to start coaching at the complex where Darlington and Hartlepool have their training pitches.

"I felt at home as soon as I joined Darlington and I still have a high regard for the club. It would be perfect if my coaching career could follow the same path as when I played."