Zidane may extend international career

Zinedine Zidane may continue to play for France after EURO 20004 despite earlier suggesting the tournament would mark his international swansong.

The Real Madrid midfielder is ready to extend his contract with Real until 2006 and it has been suggested that he will carry on representing France until the World Cup finals in 2006.

“About the national selection, I have never stated anything,” said Zidane.

“For the moment, I am in the French team and I hope to be there for a period when I am needed.

“For me, the most important thing today is the European Championships and to keep the title.

“Then, we will see. Nothing has been settled in my mind.

“So, I don’t know if I will stop with the French team after Portugal or if I will go on beyond that.”