We are the champions: Spain have conquered Europe and the world

With such reliance on those from the Nou Camp, Spain can barely help but perform with the same appeal.

'They are technically gifted and comfortable on the ball,' says Martinez. 'They receive the ball between the lines and keep possession. They are very fit. Off the ball they work hard and on it they express themselves.'

Starlets continue to emerge at Barca but other Spanish clubs are nurturing talent, too, such as Javi Martinez and Iker Muniain at Athletic Bilbao.

England's development coaches watch enviously as these players are routinely released from club commitments for competitive international tournaments.

And in such a position of strength, there is no clamour to rush tender youngsters through the ranks.

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