France legend Zinedine Zidane has denied suggestions he still has a significant influence over the dressing room and has been instructing the current players to challenge coach Raymond Domenech's authority.
The players returned to training today after they boycotted yesterday's session in protest at striker Nicolas Anelka being sent home after his row with Domenech became public knowledge.
Les Bleus' campaign has been dogged by rumours of disharmony and even suggestions 1998 World Cup-winner Zidane was trying to influence team selection.
However, the former Real Madrid and Juventus midfielder, who quit football in disgrace after being sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi as France lost the 2006 World Cup final, has refuted the allegations.
"Thinking that I can call the players to put pressure on the coach four years after I have retired is serious," said the former France captain, 38 on Wednesday.
"I never had a problem with [Domenech] but I never had a good feeling for him.
"But I respected his instructions. As captain, I was talking, but he was the coach and I respected the rules.
"I never gave my opinion on the composition of the team. I have always respected the rules."
Zidane also voiced his opposition to the team walking out of training yesterday.
"I am against the fact that Les Bleus do not train - but I'm not inside group. That's why it's better for me to be quiet," he added.
"There's a new coach in Laurent Blanc (who takes over from Domenech after the tournament) who will change all of this.
"I don't think you can blame one player or another but Laurent Blanc's arrival will change everything that is happening within the team."
