Dugarry: Language could cost Zidane the Man Utd job

Zinedine Zidane's ability to manage Manchester United has been brought into question by former team-mate Christophe Dugarry.

Zidane is widely tipped to succeed Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford should results and morale continue to falter.

However, Dugarry, who won the World Cup with Zidane and played in the Premier League for Birmingham City, believes his former team-mate's major flaw is his poor grasp of English.

Asked about the chances of Zidane becoming the next Manchester United manager, Dugarry said: 'I think it's average because Zizou does not speak a word of English. Also, it's because during this season, he had planned to take care of his children, to spend a quiet year.'

Dugarry, talking to RMC Sport in France, added: 'Of course Manchester are interested [in Zidane], who is a great coach and free right now.

'So they do everything to convince him, that's normal, and I think it would be a good idea for Manchester [United].

'In terms of quality and quantity, they're good. There are a lot of players there who are traumatised by Mourinho, so an emotional coach like Zizou would surely do them good, but for that you have to speak the language.'

Zidane is understood to be interested in the United job and learning English ahead of other potential new posts.

United have said they will not make any knee-jerk decisions over Mourinho's position despite the Portuguese struggling to illicit a response from his players and lift a gloomy atmosphere around the club.

United do want to appoint a director of football but that may not be put in place until next summer.