First indications of Vicente del Bosque’s plans for Spain’s line-up to play Finland on Friday have left Iker Casillas not included.
The goalkeeper and captain is in the squad for this week’s World Cup qualifier out in Helsinki and next week’s friendly with Chile in Geneva, despite having failed to appear for Real Madrid this term.
Whilst Del Bosque has been vocal in his continued support for the 32-year-old, indications in training are that the Coach is considering alternatives too.
Work from La Roja’s primary session on Tuesday evening placed Barcelona’s Victor Valdes in the perceived XI Del Bosque was testing as first-choice, with Casillas alternating with Pepe Reina in the ‘back-up XI’.
Also of note was Koke Resurreccion’s testing at right-back and a front three of Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Roberto Soldado.
Without Xabi Alonso, Javi Martinez and Sergio Busquets for the match, Del Bosque has been toying with a midfield three without a holding pivot, working David Silva alongside Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
Probable Spain line-up to play Finland: Valdes; Koke, Albiol, Ramos, Alba; Silva, Xavi, Iniesta; Navas, Soldado, Negredo
