Olivier Bernard

Lyon

Bernard joined the Lyon academy at the age of 13, after being spotted while representing Seine-et-Marne in a youth cup final. He rejected a professional contract from Lyon, despite being required to under the French Professional Football Charter. He was initially required to pay compensation to the French club, but this was overturned by an eventual ruling of the European Court of Justice ten years later. This resulted in changes to the French youth transfer system.

Newcastle United

Bernard joined on a free transfer from Lyon in late-August 2000. He had an evolving career with the Magpies between 2000 and 2005, even though he was at Darlington on loan in the 2000–01 season. He formed a strong left-flank partnership with fellow Frenchman Laurent Robert, being a part of Bobby Robson's side, which finished fourth, third and fifth as well as reaching the last 16 of the Champions League and the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup. He was a regular starter at the beginning of the 2004–05 season, but Robson was sacked on 28 August 2004 and replaced by Graeme Souness, who made drastic changes at the club, cutting star players like Craig Bellamy and Laurent Robert.

Southampton

After a dispute over contract negotiations, Bernard left Newcastle on 31 January 2005 to join Southampton on a five-month contract. When Southampton were relegated to the Championship in 2005, Bernard's contract expired and was not renewed by the club.

Rangers

After leaving…

Olivier Jimmy Wilfred Bernard was born on 14 October 1979 in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, and grew up in the south-east of the city. Both of his parents were born in Guadeloupe. He began to be involved with local gangs from the age of 9, and credits football with turning him away from a life of crime.

Individual

Newcastle United Player of the Year: 2003–04