Paco Alcacer has come to the defence of Spain colleague Iker Casillas, insisting the goalkeeper is a great role model for younger players.
Alcacer appeared before the Press ahead of La Roja’s game against Luxembourg tomorrow, with the status of the captain on the agenda following the Slovakia defeat.
Casillas was at fault for Slovakia’s first goal but Alcacer insisted to reporters that rather than look at that one incident, Casillas’ overall career should count for more.
“He’s a great role model and can’t be judged on one game,” the striker said, according to Marca.
“The big game isn’t in the past, it’s on Sunday. The Slovakia match was a bump in the road but Sunday’s game can help catapult us up.
“After the Slovakia game we weren’t happy. We created chances but the goals failed to materialise.
“We have to look to Sunday now and it’s the first time we can turn the page.”
Alcacer scored against Slovakia to level the scores before Miroslav Stoch’s late winner and said that while he was pleased to contribute, the defeat eroded any good feeling he had.
He also defended Diego Costa, his rival for a place in the starting XI, who has yet to score an international goal despite being prolific at club level.
“On one hand I’m happy every time I enter the pitch and I intend to do my bit,” the Valencia forward continued.
“But I wasn’t happy on Thursday because we lost three points.
“It won’t be long until Costa scores. I have a high opinion of him and he’ll soon find a goal.”
