Asier Illarramendi has vowed to ‘fight’ for a place in Spain’s 2018 World Cup squad after his winning goal against Israel on Monday.
Illarramendi’s volley from outside the box secured a 1-0 victory for Spain in their final World Cup qualifier, and the Real Sociedad midfielder made it clear a trip to Russia next summer was firmly in his sights.
“I’m very happy to play and do my bit, and my goal was ultimately needed for the win, which was important,” he said after the game.
“World Cup? It’ll be difficult for me to go to Russia. Everyone here has a chance [of making the squad] and we’ll fight [to be there].
“Israel were well-organised at the back, especially in the first half, but we had more chances in the second, and the goal and win came.”
