The French full back has made it clear over the last six months that he is unhappy about not having a new deal in place.

"My contract ends in June and we've been in talks for two years now so things can only get better," said Bernard.

"I want to stay at Newcastle and the club's got a couple of months to get it sorted. If by January it's not sorted then I'll sign for someone else.

"After December I won't sign for Newcastle, that's for sure. I won't leave it until the end of the season, it's my future.

"It'd be sad if I had to leave but it's down to the club, not me.

"We have no date planned for talks, we are just exchanging faxes between the club and my agent, so I don't know what's going on. But I want to get it sorted soon."

Although Bernard has never held back on his comments, this is the first time he has vented his thoughts in public under the Graeme Souness regime.

The Scot admits that he wants Bernard to stay, but also stated that he would be stupid to quit a club the size of Newcastle.

"I've not spoken to Olly but we want him to stay. Where is he going to go and find a better club?" said Souness.

"If you've got half a brain you don't want to leave here. I'm sure our salaries are very good - given the state of our car park at the training ground they must be!"