Materazzi tired of trying to 'make up' with Zidane 05/10/2006 00:00

ROME, Oct 5, 2006 (AFP/AFP) - Italy defender Materazzi says he is getting tired of trying to make up with Zinédine Zidane following their clash at the World Cup final in July.

Zidane was sent off in the second period of extra time for head-butting Materazzi, who had insulted the French midfield maestro.

Italy went on to defeat France 5-3 on penalties after the match had finished tied at 1-1. Zidane put France ahead with a penalty-kick before Materazzi headed the equaliser.

"I've always said that I am ready to make up and I've even told (world football's governing body) FIFA, verbally and in writing," Materazzi said ahead of Italy's 2008 European championship qualifying match at home to Ukraine on Saturday.

"I've tried everything to make up with him and I'm tired of it, especially because I was the one who was head-butted.

"In fifty years time everybody will remember the head-butting incident rather than my goal.

"I also received a letter from the United Nations asking me to be a spokesperson for them. They're hoping to set up a meeting and Zidane should be there too.

"If he's there, good. Otherwise I won't try to make peace anymore. I'm getting tired of it."

Materazzi is available to play again for Italy having served his two-match ban. Zidane retired from football after the World Cup final.

Copyright AFP

Subject: French news