Iker Casillas doesn’t believe there is a problem with commitment, either with the players in the Spain squad or anyone not present.
Casillas’ Real Madrid teammate Sergio Ramos has questioned the dedication of Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa after the Chelsea pair missed the game against Belarus on Saturday and Tuesday’s Germany friendly.
Cesc withdrew with injury having played for his club against Liverpool, whereas Costa was left out of the squad so he could rest.
“The commitment is total. I’m sure those who aren’t here have total commitment,” the captain said, AS reports.
“I’m not getting involved with what Ramos said. The commitment of the 23 [in the squad] and others who were unable to join us couldn’t be greater.”
Casillas also didn’t want to discuss who might win the Ballon d’Or, amid speculation Madrid colleague Cristiano Ronaldo is a shoo-in.
As Spain captain, Casillas gets a vote, but declined to say if he had given his backing to Ronaldo.
“It’s a topic that bores me, and makes me tired. I’ve already decided who I’m voting for. FIFA will make it public when the time comes,” he added.
Casillas is more excited at the prospect of playing Germany, the country that followed Spain as World Cup winners. He was particularly fulsome in his praise for Thomas Muller.
“It’s a beautiful thing to play Germany. We hope to have the support of the public, as we do in every ground in Spain,” he continued.
“I have no doubt we’ll enjoy the support of the fans in Vigo. I hope it’s a good game and the people have a good time.
“Germany have dropped some points in Euro 2016 qualifying. I remember after we won the World Cup we also had some trouble.
“You have to have the utmost respect for Germany because they are the world champions. I hope the showdown between the world champions and the European champions is spectacular.
“I love Muller. He’s a different kind of player and in some ways he reminds me of Raul.”
Casillas was equally kind towards Isco, who caught the eye on Saturday as La Roja eased past Belarus.
“He’s a special player, a sensational player who we have seen coming for some time. His head is on right and now he’s handling success calmly and with maturity,” he said.
“The national team and Madrid will take care of him and I’m so glad it’s happening for the national team and for Madrid.”
On his own situation, Casillas said on the eve of what would be his 160th cap that he has no intention of retiring from international duty.
“I’ll come whenever I’m called and I want to win. There’ve been ups and downs with Madrid but to have a place in the national team is necessary to maintain the highest standards day after day for my team,” he cautioned.
