New leaders: The likes of captain Iker Casillas have led Spain's golden generation

Guardiola did not mean to be rude about Jack Wilshere earlier this year, when he said he liked Arsenal's teenage midfielder but had a few like him at Barcelona B. He did, including Thiago Alcantara and Oriol Romeu, who is now at Chelsea.

Spanish players are allowed to complete their education -  technically and tactically. Off the field, they live as athletes. On it, as with Cruyff's Ajax and Holland teams, they can circulate in possession because they understand the bigger picture.

All of which must be a delight for Del Bosque, who rested players for the final Euro qualifier against Scotland, tried Manchester City's David Silva in the 'false centre forward' role and won with style.

At Wembley, he may experiment a little more but Spain have faith in their methods. Why wouldn't they?

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