SIR BOBBY ROBSON insists Olivier Bernard's impressive form is conclusive proof that Newcastle United were right to fight to keep the Frenchman at St. James' Park.

Bernard has recovered from an uncertain start to the season to emerge as one of the Magpies' most consistent performers.

But the struggle to establish himself as Robson's first-choice left-back has been long and arduous.

Bernard, who fought a legal battle with Lyon to win a free transfer to Newcastle in the summer of 2000, was desperate to escape Tyneside via a similar route two years later.

But his attempts to engineer a move to West Ham were scuppered when a Premier League tribunal ruled that Newcastle held an option on his contract for a third season.

Bernard, who had claimed he was a free agent and even signed a pre-contract with the Hammers, soon settled his differences with Robson and agreed a fresh three-year deal.

Now Robson believes Newcastle are reaping the benefits as 24-year-old Bernard, once on loan at Darlington, forges an understanding with fellow countryman Laurent Robert.

Robson said: "Generally, the left side of our team is very good at the moment. Olivier is coming along nicely, and he's still young.

"He's very powerful, quick and strong and loves a tackle. We like him and that's why we fought for him with the West Ham situation last year.

"We did that because we knew we had a fine prospect.''

Robson's defence is set to be bolstered when he side return to action a week on Saturday.

Centre-back Jonathan Woodgate is on course to make his senior comeback in the home game against Kevin Keegan's Manchester City.

England international Woodgate, sidelined for almost two months after surgery for a double hernia, came through unscathed from Monday's home reserve game with Middlesbrough.

He said: "I played 80 minutes and feel a bit stiff. It was very tough, but I'm hoping to get another run-out in the Reserves at home to West Brom next Monday. The important thing is being ready for Man. City.''

Midfielder Kieron Dyer, out for over three weeks with a hamstring injury, is also expected to be fit for the City clash.

* Newcastle's game at Manchester United, scheduled for Saturday, January 10, has been switched to the following day (4.00) for coverage on Sky Sports.

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