Beckenbauer: Zizou vital for French
With the French team doctor stating that Zizou would be fit for the final group game, and then contradicting himself, there is still bemused faces in the French camp.
However, one thing that remains clear is that the Real Madrid star has been missed by his compatriots - and German legend Beckenbauer believes he is the key component of France.
"Zidane is the leader of the French team," asserted Beckenbauer. "A match is never the same without him.
"Without Zidane France are half as good, it is like Maradona was to Argentina in 1986.
"Without any hesitation Zidane must play against Denmark, even if he is not at his best.
"His presence on the pitch is essential as it will strike fear into the hearts of the adversaries.
"Psychologically it is essential."
Beckenbauer believes that France's English-based players are tired out from the season.
"Many of the Frenchmen have been playing their club football in England and play in a league with 20 clubs, two cups the Champions League and of course international games.
"I say it is too much and we can't go on that way.
"The World Cup comes just once every four years and yet we are not seeing the best of stars such as Zidane, David Beckham, Robert Pires and Luis Figo.
"They are not injured by accident but because they played too much.
"This World Cup is a good time to say 'stop.'
"We have to reduce the number of teams in the leagues, the number of Champions League matches. Reduce everywhere."
