Del Bosque: Xavi an example

Vicente Del Bosque has hailed former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez and admitted he is still missed at international get-togethers.

Del Bosque was speaking as Marca honoured Xavi for his contribution to football, the national team trainer reflecting on La Roja life without the 2010 World Cup winner, who stepped away from international football in 2014.

“For me, Xavi has been an example as a leader on the pitch for many years, but I’d also like to stress he’s been a leader for his behaviour off the pitch, and we should be proud of him,” Del Bosque said.

“Even now when we train, I tell Sergio Busquets that if Xavi was here, he’d be with the ball from the first minute. We think about him a lot.

“He’d always take the ball and begin to play with his teammates from the start. He always stood out for his touch, for giving the right pass, and he’d always be out there with his teammates from the start of the session.

“We miss him for that. Hopefully he will be in our memories for many years.”

Tags Spain Vicente Del Bosque Xavi Hernandez
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