Ex-France international helps

           

     Rodez Aveyron FC, from the south west of France, play in the French fourth division.We had serious financial difficulties because we are in a region which is not very well developed economically," said the club's president Jean Francois, "so we have few financial sponsors and the local Government gives us less and less money.When the club's owners realised Zidane was spending time in the area at his in-laws, they plucked up the courage to see the star and ask him to help their financially troubled club.Neither Zidane nor Rodez FC will say how much exactly the former World Player of the Year is contributing financially, but the club believes his pledge to turn up frequently will encourage sponsors, keen to share space with the French legend. And, as Zidane told the BBC's World Football programme, he was more than happy to come on board as an investor.He added: Why not try and get back into the second division one day? That means everyone has to work hard and put in resources that are needed. Lots of things are needed but it's up to us, including me now that I'm on board, to pull together.Some people came to see me about their ambitions for Rodez football club and it seemed interesting. Things needed to be done and I wanted to help out," said Zidane.As well as being Real Madrid's director of football, he is also studying part-time to get a coaching qualification and won't rule out one day even coaching in England. I come from the streets, a difficult neighbourhood. I have never forgotten my roots. It's not because you work for the biggest club in the world that you forget everything beforehand. It's thanks to my in-laws that I have discovered this club and family. I love this region and spending time here and I feel at home