Vieira backs Ben Arfa for Euros

Posted Friday, April 13, 2012 by ESPN

Patrick Vieira believes Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa deserves a place in France's Euro 2012 squad.

Having recovered from a broken tibia and fibula earlier in the year, Ben Arfa has been nothing short of spectacular for Newcastle. Together with team-mate Papiss Cisse, the Frenchman has helped the Magpies climb up the Premier League table and could find himself playing in the Champions League next season.

His good performances for Newcastle has convinced Viera that Ben Arfa deserves to add on to his eight caps at the upcoming European Championship.

"[Hatem] Ben Arfa deserves to go to the European Championship, he has very strong claims to go, and you’ve got to say well done to him for coming back to his best after his injuries." he said to the Mirror.

Magpies manager Alan Pardew also hopes his player's outstanding form will be recognized by France boss Laurent Blanc.

"He should definitely have a chance with the French squad. There’s not many players can do the things he does, his work-rate is phenomenal and I’m sure the French manager understands that." the Englishman said.

"He can [dribble] go that quickly but still put the ball exactly where he wants it. It’s only the great dribblers that can do that."

Newcastle's next Premier League fixture will see them host Stoke City at the Sports Direct Arena.