Aritz Aduriz confirms he hasn’t heard from Vicente Del Bosque but praises the Spain Coach and forward rival Diego Costa.
Aduriz’s prolific form for Athletic Bilbao has led to calls for a Spain return with Euro 2016 in mind, but the striker told Onda Cero he doesn’t know what Del Bosque’s plans are.
“He hasn’t called me. The national team is a team in which there are great players, and it shouldn’t be easy for the Coach to make a decision,” he acknowledged, Marca reports.
“I have, personally and professionally, a lot of respect for the Coach.”
Aduriz is fighting Chelsea striker Costa for a place amid reports the former Atletico Madrid man could be left out of Friday’s friendly squad over his latest disciplinary issue as he was accused of biting Everton’s Gareth Barry.
“Costa is a world class player. His character sometimes plays tricks but it’s also made him who he is. You have to accept that,” Aduriz noted.
Aduriz also discussed club matters, targeting victory in the Europa League for Los Leones.
“It might be the year to win a European trophy. That’s what we play for,” he said.
“We’re convinced we can. What is clear is that Athletic’s performance is still spectacular. The individuals flourish when the team functions.
“Everyone at Athletic is very responsible. We know when we can enjoy ourselves and when we can rest. In that sense we have a spectacular and highly-concentrated group.”
