Patrick Vieira says England is where he now calls ‘home’ as The FA’s 150th anniversary celebrations begin.

The Frenchman’s illustrious career saw him win both the World Cup and European Championship with Les Bleus, along with a string of honours during his time with Arsenal.

As one of the best midfielders of his generation, spells in Italy with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus added up to form a glittering career for the Senegal-born star.

But he’s happy to admit that he now calls England his home and was a special guest of The FA at last week’s FA150 launch ceremony in London.

He told FATV: "This is where I spent my best time, I would say.

"I arrived here when I was 19 or 20, and went on to have nine years at Arsenal.

"And that is where I had the pick of my game, so I call England home.”

A combative player, with flair and creativity, Vieira was a key member of the Arsenal team which won the Premier League and FA Cup double in both 1998 and 2002.

And it was his time with the Gunners which sealed Vieira’s love affair with English football and a desire to return to finish his career here with Manchester City.

"I think this is where I really found myself, because I love the passion, the desire and the commitment of the players on the field,” he added.

"That is why I found myself, because I'm that kind of player and I really enjoyed my time in the Premier League.”

Watch the full interview with Vieira in the Media Gallery above, where he also speaks of his passion for his new job as Football Development Executive with Manchester City.