Speculations claim Vieira, who is head coach of Nice, is one of the names on Arsenal’s shortlist, but the Frenchman has played down the rumours.

Former Arsenal captain, Patrick Vieira, has brushed off speculation that he could take over as the club’s new manager, following Unai Emery’s dismissal.

Vieira’s former team-mate, Freddie Ljunberg, has been put in temporary charge of the Gunners, while the club continue to search for a permanent manager.

Speculations claim Vieira, who is head coach of Nice, is one of the names on Arsenal’s shortlist, but the Frenchman has played down the rumours.

“It’s a very difficult job and I realise that. It’s always sad to see a coach lose his job,” he told reporters, following Nice’s victory over Angers on Saturday.

“Today it’s his turn and tomorrow maybe it will be me. When you throw yourselves into this job, you have to expect to be sacked one day.

“There are things I don’t control. People say a lot of things in this industry, whether they’re true or not. I have nothing to say on the matter.

“Like you, I read things, watch things and listen to things. That’s all. I have never said I wanted to leave Nice!

“Maybe one day I’ll be sacked without wanting to leave Nice.

“I know where I am and I know where I’m going and it doesn’t bother me.

“It’s true that this evening I would have preferred more questions about the performance of my players rather than on my future.”