RONALDO WANTS BARTHEZ REVENGE
The Brazilian superstar, who has been plagued by knee problems, is still bitter that he was barely fit enough to play in the 1998 glamour event in Paris, and he wants to face Barthez again - and put the ball in the back of his net.
"The defeat in the 1998 final still sticks in my throat," he told Pele.net. "I want to have the chance to play against Barthez, to score a goal, and to win it. I want revenge."
A devastating 3-0 defeat handed the glory to the host nation, amidst controversial scenes, as the furore sounding Ronaldo threatened to overshadow the whole event.
"At the moment, I only think about coming back to play football," Ronaldo declared. "I want to come back and train normally together with the other players.
"I wait to play in the next World Cup without physical problems and to try and take Brazil to the title.
"If I want to play against one player it is Barthez, the goalkeeper of France. The defeat in 1998 hurt and I want to have the chance to play against him.
"I would not want to play against the violent defenders who forget the ball and look to hurt their opponent."
Internazionale forward Ronaldo also denied having any problems with Roberto Carlos, and affirmed that he feels Luis Figo is the best player in the world at the moment.
