Patrick Vieira responds to Arsenal managerial link

Arsenal favourite Patrick Vieira has admitted he is flattered to be linked with the Gunners head coach role, though he would prefer staying with New York City FC for the next couple of seasons.

Earlier on Friday, Arsene Wenger announced that he has decided to call time on his lengthy association with the Gunners and he would be leaving the club during the summer.

Since then, compatriot Vieira, who spent nine seasons under Wenger has emerged as a possible successor, though he has now distanced himself from the speculation.

He told radio station WNYE: "I am always flattered to hear my name linked with different football clubs. That is good for your ego but at the same time, I am happy here.

"We will see what will happen in the next couple of years. I spent nine years at Arsenal which makes the club really special for me, but that is not enough to coach the team."

Aside from Vieira, the likes of Carlo Ancelotti and Luis Enrique have also been touted as possible candidates to succeed Wenger and reports suggest that Arsenal have begun negotiations with the latter.

Enrique is said to be keen on a Premier League challenge following his year-long sabbatical and the Gunners could face a straight tussle with Chelsea for the ex-Barcelona coach.