Zidane denies interfering in France tactics

Former French captain Zinedine Zidane (front) and former South African national soccer player Lucas Radebe attend a news conference at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg June 21, 2010. [Agencies]

JOHANNESBURG - France legend Zinedine Zidane on Monday denied suggestions he had been interfering with France's game tactics at the 2010 World Cup.

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"I never gave my opinion on the composition of the team. I have always respected the rules," said the former French soccer star in South Africa.

In light of major problems on and off the pitch for the French squad in South Africa, Zidane said the France players need to "pull themselves together and put their ego aside".

"Even as a player I never spoke my opinion of lineups or tactics. I have always respected the coach," Zidane said Monday. "That people think I may have called players to pressure the coach is horrible."

France have one point from two matches in Group A ahead of their final match against South Africa.