Real Sociedad boss Eusebio Sacristian has tipped Inigo Martinez to bounce back after the defender’s tough baptism of fire for Spain against England.
Inigo was part of a Spain defence that conceded two goals against England, but speaking ahead of La Real’s match against Sporting Gijon on Sunday, Eusebio asserted the centre-back was destined to “follow” in Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos’ footsteps.
“Anyone who says that Inigo isn’t at Spain’s level doesn’t know him well and only judged him on one match [against England], which Spain suffered a lot in,” declared the Coach.
“Those of us who know Inigo well know his potential and quality and that he will be a very important player for the Spanish national team.
“He’s in the same process that Ramos or Pique were in and who have become very important. I’m convinced that Inigo is going to follow them.
“Agirretxe? It’s very good news for everyone, certainly for him, because he’s ready to be back with the team again, and for us because we have a player of his quality who can win us points.
“The idea is that he can return at any moment, but must be prepared for what the team needs at any moment.
“Granero? It’s true that Esteban, like Igor [Zubeldia], has trained with us this week, and it opens the possibility for him to be picked and play a few minutes.
“Last season’s 5-1 defeat? The circumstances are different, but we must bear in mind that we’re facing a team that play with great intensity on the pitch and have fans that push them a lot, so we have to be very attentive and focused on. From this, we’ll have chances of securing the victory.
“Abelardo? In his time there, he’s given an identity to a team with homegrown players and reinforcements from the outside that have adapted to the difficulties they have, which makes them united and a team that leave everything on the pitch because they need the points.”
