Del Bosque: This squad is unique

Vicente del Bosque has explained the reasoning behind Spain’s squad named for World Cup qualifying against Finland and France.

For the double-header coming up next week, La Roja have notably listed David de Gea, Isco, Cesar Azpilicueta, Javi Garcia and Alvaro Negredo.

At the same time, Fernando Torres, Carles Puyol and Javi Martinez are among those not included in the squad.

Beginning with Xavi Hernandez’ call-up, which comes despite his struggles with a thigh injury, head Coach Del Bosque looked to offer his reasoning for the 24-man Seleccion.

“It is true that Xavi has an injury, he called me and said that he was uncomfortable but that he wanted to join the squad,” began Del Bosque today.

“But rather than for the first game, for the second, for the importance of the game on the group. Again he is giving proof of his affection for the Spanish team.

“This squad is unique, there are players like Casillas, Puyol and Torres who are not here. Why no Javi Martinez? Playing for Bayern he does not look good at all and that’s why I have not brought him. The day we see his rhythm back is the day Javi will be called up.

“Puyol, I spoke with him, he has discomfort and was not entirely certain. We have chosen not to bring him because he is not at his best.

“Torres is the same case as Javi, we are not sure of his call and that is why he is not here. The strikers, in principle, are our main concern for their irregularity.

“Casillas I have seen is back training. He is very positive. But he is not yet discharged. All who have been called up can participate in at least one of the two games.

“Isco? He was with us in the last squad, he has been close to us before and he has now made his debut. There are none in the squad that are not full internationals, apart from De Gea.

“There is tremendous competition in midfield, it costs us to have to leave anyone out. The list is 24, which is unusual. We have done this because there is a weekend of upcoming League games to cover ourselves for.

“Those called up are here by merit. Isco deserves to be here. Being young is not the same as having merit to be here.

“Another thing is the Confederations Cup, where we are looking to do some renovation work. We have made substantial changes from 2008 to now. Our goal is not to bring just new faces, but those that deserve it.”

Del Bosque also looked ahead to the upcoming games against Finland and France.

“In World Cup qualifying, I am concerned with trying to win the games to secure our qualification. Everyone is well and we address these matches with the spirit and motivation to do well.

“We prepare to win and do so in the best conditions, but it is sport and anything can happen. We know that any team can be difficult.

“Who will start in goal? We have time to see what conditions the three will arrive in, they are three great goalkeepers.”

Tags Casillas Chelsea Del Bosque Isco Javi Martinez Puyol Spain Torres Xavi
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