Zidane Deemed Healthy Enough to Face Man United
Copyright � 1999 Nando Media
Copyright � 1999 Agence France-Presse
MANCHESTER, England (April 6, 1999 4:11 p.m. EDT http://www.sportserver.com) - French World Cup captain Zinedine Zidane will be fit to face Manchester United in Wednesday's European Cup semifinal first leg at Old Trafford, Juventus coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Tuesday.
The playmaker missed Saturday's 1-0 serie A defeat by Empoli because of a knee injury.
"I saw him yesterday and he is very good. His presence is important to us as he lifts our morale," Ancelotti said.
The Juventus coach believes that with Zidane's experience his team can slow down the match and stop United playing their best football.
The pace of Dwight Yorke, Andy Cole and Ryan Giggs, plus the crossing ability of David Beckham, has helped United create numerous chances against previous opponents in the competition, including Inter Milan.
Ancelotti added: "The strength of Manchester United is that they have very strong players and because of this they have been able to create a good team."
"They are very good down the right flank with David Beckham but they can also play through the middle of the pitch if they need to.
"But even though we had a bad result against Empoli. I am pleased coming here because I don't believe Manchester United will be able to sustain the rhythm they need."
Despite admitting United are favorites, Ancelotti is refusing to show any anxiety.
"I know that it's a big challenge to play Manchester United but I'm not worried at all. We will need enthusiasm and strength to take something from this game and we will have them both."
