French TV gives Zidane inside info on Lyon

February 22, 2011 | 08:37

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Zinedine Zidane says he has been able to give Real Madrid inside information on their Champions League rivals Lyon, as he receives French television at his house in the Spanish capital.

Former French football player Zinedine Zidane, seen here addressing the press in Lyon, says he has been … source: AFP

Zidane, who played for Real between 2001 and 2006, is currently employed as an advisor to club president Florentino Perez and has begun to work more closely with coach Jose Mourinho in recent months.

Ahead of the last 16 first leg match between Lyon and Real here on Tuesday, Zidane gave journalists an insight into his role at the Spanish giants.

"The advice that I give, I give more as a former player, because of my past," he said.

"I know how Lyon play. Like Jose Mourinho said, there are lots of people in this club who know lots of things. But, as I have French television at home, it's easier for me."

Real were knocked out of the Champions League by Lyon at the same stage last season and have yet to beat the French side in six encounters in the competition.

"The most important thing is the match tomorrow (Tuesday)," added Zidane.

"It's three times that Real haven't won against Lyon and we hope that the statistics change. It will obviously be different but Real have a chance to get through this round."

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Mourinho said that Zidane had played a key role in his side's preparations.

"He knows OL better than us, he follows French football more closely," said Mourinho. "And he knows Real very well too. He's with us, as he always will be in the Champions League.

"His advice and his information have been very precious. We've relied upon his know-how to prepare for this match."

AFP

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