Zidane: Beckham is class

13-Feb-2013 5:45:00 AM

The 40-year-old has lauded his former team-mate's professionalism and hunger for the game as he embarks on another European adventure at the age of 37

Real Madrid and France legend Zinedine Zidane has paid tribute to David Beckham as his former team-mate prepares for a spell with Paris Saint-Germain.

The former Manchester United winger is due to start working with les Parisiens on Wednesday and Zidane has lauded him for his professionalism and longevity in the sport.

"Beckham is someone who comes 45 minutes early to training and leaves a half an hour after everyone has left. He is truly a great professional. Some players today could benefit from his level of professionalism.

"Now he 37-years-old, he does not play every game for 90 minutes, but is still capable of influencing any match in the 20 or 30 minutes he has.

"This is a man who loves the sport. At the age of 37, his passion is still there. The guy is class."

PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti revealed Beckham could make his debut against bitter rivals Marseille later this month.