Son of French football great Zidane switches allegiance to Algeria

Luca Zidane, son of France’s World Cup-winning playmaker Zinedine, has switched international allegiance to Algeria, putting the goalkeeper in line to follow in his father’s footsteps and play at the World Cup.

Zidane’s switch of allegiance after playing for France at junior level was approved by soccer's world governing body FIFA on Friday and posted on their Change of Association Platform.

Zidane plays for Spanish second-division outfit Granada and his switch of allegiance is an indication the Algerians are seeking to add more options to their goalkeeping department.

Algeria have used four keepers over the last year of competitive matches, with Alexis Guendouz of Mouloudia Alger the first choice.

There have also been appearances for Oussama Benbot, who is also home-based; Anthony Mandrea, who competes in the French third division and Alexandre Oukidja, who plays in the Serbian league.

Algerian roots