Zidane: "Rumours about James make me angry"

The Frenchman has defended his player's hard work

Posted Sunday, January 24, 2016 by Marca.com

Zidane:

Zidane appeared in front of the press ahead of his team's game against Betis.

On James: "If he plays you'll see him out on the pitch tomorrow. James has had a good week, as has everyone else. I'm pleased with what he's doing. He's working really hard and we know just how important a player he is for this team. We'll see what happens tomorrow, but he's ready to play".

Does he look worried to you? "I don't focus on him any more than any other player but we are close. He doesn't look worried to me. He says he's relaxed. He needs to be as ready as the rest of the team. The plan is to be in tip-top condition and prepare for whatever is ahead each and every week. He's ready to play".

On rumours of James's nights out: "I'm angered by what people are saying about James, but we have to put those rumours to one side. I like what I see of James here. He's fully focused on what he's doing and I don't believe what is being said about him outside of the club. He looks committed and focused on what he does every day".

Who will deputise for Bale? "That's part of my job, to make the tough calls, and tomorrow I'll have to make one. It gives us a chance to see some of the other players and I'll make a decision tomorrow".

Are you going to stick to the Sporting Gijon game plan? "We have to start the match in the same way, fully focused, motivated... Everything we did in the first half. I think that everyone is focused on doing the same thing. Every game is different, but we're fully focused".