Luis Enrique on Jordi Alba exclusion: “It is not a personal decision”

Spain boss Luis Enrique insists the exclusion of players, such as Jordi Alba, is a ‘sporting decision’ and not a ‘personal one’.

La Roja’s 23-man squad was announced on Thursday ahead of the games against Wales and England, with the Barcelona full-back excluded for the second successive squad under the Coach.

“I do not discuss players who are not in the squad,” Enrique told reporters, as cited by Marca.

“However, anyone not selected is because of sporting reasons, not personal ones and there are only 23 players who I can select – if possible, I could bring in many more who could do a job.

“Paco Alcacer? I know him well, he was fantastic at Valencia and was with me at Barcelona, although he probably did not receive as much playing time as he would have liked.

“He is now playing and doing very well at Dortmund, he is scoring goals because some players are unavailable, I am very happy.

“Isco? His unavailability is complicated because he is a crucial player and there is no replacement who can do what he does for us.

“This is an opportunity for other players to come in and show what they can do, to be alert and know they have the possibility for playing.

“Jonny Castro? He played many times at right back (for Celta Vigo) last season but now he is playing on the other side of the defence.

“Alvaro Morata? He has not played much, maybe he can show me what he can do in the friendly with Wales ahead of the key clash with England.”

Tags Jordi Alba Spain
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