Real play down Zidane fears

Tuesday 13 December, 2005

Real Madrid have dismissed rumours that Zinedine Zidane could be facing another spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury.

The France captain picked up a knock during Sunday’s 2-0 win over Malaga, prompting fears that his recent run of injury problems was set to continue.

But Real declared on their official website: “There will be no problem regarding Zidane’s availability for the match against Osasuna on Sunday.”

The former Juventus ace played the entire game against Malaga, but pulled up in pain during Monday’s training session.

Zidane has already missed several games this season with a groin problem.

The three-times world player of the year is set to play a vital role in France’s World Cup campaign next summer, and Les Bleus boss Raymond Domenech will be keeping his fingers crossed that the influential playmaker turns up in Germany in peak condition next June.