Del Bosque: Villa could start

Spain boss Vicente Del Bosque has claimed that David Villa could return for La Roja in their friendly against Saudi Arabia on Friday.

The Barcelona forward hasn't played for the national team since breaking his leg for La Blaugrana back in December 2011, but the 61-year-old coach has hinted he could get his 83rdcap against the Arab nation on Friday night.

“Villa is fine,” he told a Press conference today. “He's has a very serious injury and just being here is already a sign of the confidence we have in him. We want him to help this set-up and that means playing games.”

When asked about the prospect of facing the Green Falcons, and whether he will consider playing a weakened side, the former Real Madrid tactician responded accordingly.

“We have two games in September, two in October and one in November. There are five games, and three competitive ones – we have to prepare in the best possible way. The friendly game is a great preparation for what is to come. We do not want to struggle to qualify for Brazil.

“We want to involve all the players in the squad. There are 23 of them, and they are all available, and are all strong players.”

The ex-Besiktas Head Coach then described what it meant to be top of the new FIFA world rankings that were released on Wednesday.

“It is an honour to lead the world rankings, and it makes us more conscious, if possible, that we have to continue winning matches. It is not an obsession of ours [to remain top], remember, we still haven't qualifies for the World Cup.”

Del Bosque concluded the interview by congratulating Fernando Torres, who if he plays on Friday, will reach 100 caps for Spain.

“To see another player of this generation reach 100 caps is an honour. Sergio Ramos isn't far off either [with 92]. Santi Cazorla, Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique – they all have around 45. Andres Iniesta and David Silva, they are both on 70-something – to see all them reach 100 would be a great achievement.”

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