Roberto Soldado has conceded that he wasn’t sure he would make the final cut for Spain’s squad to go to the Confederations Cup.
The Valencia striker was seen as one of the three names Vicente del Bosque was most likely to cut from his provisional 26-man squad to take to Brazil this summer.
However, even in Xabi Alonso’s withdrawal, Del Bosque selected the 28-year-old ahead of midfielders Javi Garcia and Benat Etxebarria.
“If I am honest, I wasn’t sure. The competition is very high and I’m happy to have made the final list,” reflected Soldado to reporters today.
“I want to give encouragement to those who have been left out. No one will be given anything in the national team as they are world and European champions.
“For me it is a dream to be here, I am very excited. Being here is always special, particularly when you are playing in a major tournament like the Confederations Cup.”
Soldado will be working under a new Coach next term at Valencia, after Ernesto Valverde decided not to renew his contract, with Miroslav Djukic on the verge of coming in.
“I renewed and I want to stay at Valencia to return the team to the Champions League.
“Regarding Djukic, he comes with enthusiasm and to get results, which is what we all want.”
