Zidane misses training but will play against Brazil

HAMLIN, June 29, 2006 (AFP) – French skipper Zinedine Zidane missed training here on Thursday due to a leg injry but was expected to be fully fit in time for Saturday’s quarter-final clash against Brazil.

Team officials said that the 24-year-old Real Madrid playmaker spent the morning getting treatment on the injury bacl at the hotel instead of joining the rest of the squad for a workout.

Zidane scored the final goal in the 3-1 win over Spain that took the French into the last eight after missing the previous match due to suspension.

The only other player to miss training was reserve defender Gael Givet who was said to be feeling unwell.

First choice full-back Will Sagnol started the session but did not finish it apparently protecting an injured right ankle.