‘Exciting’ – Patrick Vieira’s first words after landing new job following Crystal Palace sacking

Patrick Vieira has landed his first permanent managerial job since being sacked by Crystal Palace in March.

The French World Cup winner has been announced as the new head coach of Ligue 1 club RC Strasbourg on a three-year contract.

Ex-New York City and Nice boss Vieira has been out of work since being sacked by the Eagles and replaced by Roy Hodgson for the final 10 games of the season.

Vieira guided Palace to a 12th-placed Premier League finish and an FA Cup semi-final in his first season in charge at Selhurst Park. 

However, Vieira was sacked after recording a 12-game winless run, which saw Palace become the first team on record in the Premier League to fail to record a shot on target in three games in a row.

The former Arsenal and Inter Milan midfielder was interviewed for the vacant Leeds United managerial role before joining Strasbourg.

Chelsea’s owners recently agreed a deal to buy a majority stake in the French side.

“I am particularly happy to join Racing,” said Vieira.

“I know the history and the identity of this club, the fervour it arouses, the importance it has for its region, which is a place of football and passion.

“The rebuilding of the club in recent years, under the direction of Marc Keller [Strasbourg president], is an example to be admired.

“Working with him is a real pleasure for me. Today, a new cycle begins for Racing and it is exciting as a coach to be able to build something while relying on the values that have defined the strength of the club.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD