Vicente Del Bosque has praised David Villa after Spain’s record goal scorer added two more to his tally against El Salvador.
New York City FC striker David Villa claimed a brace to help La Roja see off the Central Americans and end their World Cup preparations with a victory at FedEx Field.
Villa entered the match at half-time and proved the difference, with the Coach lauding the former Atletico Madrid man after the final whistle.
“We know that Villa, in confined spaces, is one of the best in the world,” Del Bosque said, according to AS.
“We lacked consistency and accuracy in the final metres but we were well positioned on the field. We feel good. We are optimistic about the start of the competition.
“There weren’t many options here but they did well and our defending was ordered.
“But it’s not important if we play well because if we have the initiative in the game I’m sure that in most games we’ll have the space to pass.”
The fixture was used in part to test the fitness of a couple of players in Del Bosque’s squad, most notably right-back Juanfran and striker Diego Costa.
Del Bosque confirmed the Atletico Madrid pair came through the game without a problem and there are to be no changes to the squad that goes to Brazil.
“Juanfran has played 90 minutes and has weathered it. Costa has played 70 and in truth it’s gone more or less as expected but he had less time. This 23 will go to Brazil.”
Jordi Alba appeared in some discomfort but Del Bosque revealed the Barcelona left-back was suffering from only a minor problem – blisters.
Spain have thus far avoided the injury problems that have afflicted the likes of France and Germany, who have lost Franck Ribery and Marco Reus respectively.
“All teams have problems but we have a team more than individual players,” Del Bosque said.
“We function as a team more than individual players and that makes it easier to find solutions when we have injuries.”
Del Bosque also touched on the opposition for Spain’s World Cup opener, before thanking the El Salvador players for presenting a gift for his disabled son, Alvaro.
“We don’t fear the Netherlands. We respect the rightful runners-up of the World Cup,” he said.
“I appreciate [the gift] and the public support to raise awareness. It shows the capacity of the people with him.”
