Football: Zidane out for Holland

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, March 29 (AFP) – Real Madrid play-maker Zinedine Zidane has pulled out of France’s friendly international with Holland here on Wednesday because of a groin strain.

Arsenal’s Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires had already been withdrawn by Arsenal to nurse injuries.

However, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger agreed to release star striker Thierry Henry.

Marseille striker Steve Marlet also told national coach Jacques Santini he would not be available for the match despite playing 20 minutes of his club’s 1-1 draw against Bordeaux.

Rangers defender Frank de Boer and Lazio defender Jaap Stam have pulled out of the Dutch squad.

© AFP

                                         Subject: French news