Strength in depth: Even the likes of Cesc Fabregas (right) struggle for selection

'Look at the players who have come from Spain to the Premier League. I've been raving about David Silva and Juan Mata for years and they are not first choice in the Spain team.

'Cesc Fabregas, one of the best players in the Premier League, is not first choice. Those on the periphery are keen to get in and be successful. There is pressure. Standards are high.'

The desire to play for Spain has not always seemed so great. The usual excuse trotted out for their failings was that of the divided nation. The Basques and the Catalans figured the national team was a project for the capital city and led by Real Madrid darlings such as Emilio Butragueno or Raul.

That problem had eased, although the unity in Del Bosque's camp may be tested by Jose Mourinho stirring animosity at Real Madrid.

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