Barcelona: Spain coach Julen Lopetegui made some surprise selections in his squad to face Israel and France in the upcoming international break.
Gerard Deulofeu, on loan at AC Milan from Everton and Asier Illarramendi of Real Sociedad were included, along with Chelsea forward Pedro who missed out last time.
As many as 10 players from the previous squad selected in November were dropped, including Manchester United’s Juan Mata, Real Madrid winger Lucas Vazquez and Barcelona’s versatile Sergi Roberto.
Deulofeu was last included in the national team squad back in 2014, but the 24-year-old is playing well in Serie A and has been rewarded with a call up.
“We know Deulofeu well and it’s important that he has found regular appearances in Milan,” said Lopetegui.
“We like him and he can help us. The same with Pedro, who we’ve known for a long time and he’s playing at a great level and he’s the perfect age.”
The 29-year-old forward has been a key figure in Chelsea’s Premier League title charge this season, improving hugely from his shaky start to English football last season after he moved from Barcelona.
Meanwhile Illarramendi could make his debut for the national team after a solid season with Real Sociedad, who are currently sixth in the table and battling for a top four spot.
Lopetegui added: “Illarramendi has been playing well for a while and has some specific characteristics that suit us well.”
Chelsea duo Marcos Alonso and Cesc Fabregas were not called up, even though they are enjoying good seasons.
“Cesc is playing well and we took him into account,” said Lopetegui. ‘‘The same for Marcos Alonso, who is doing well, but we decided to call up Jordi Alba and Nacho Monreal. “The important thing is to take on the game against Israel with energy and focus because they are a tough opponent.”
Spain host Israel in a World Cup 2018 qualifier on March 24, before travelling to France for a friendly on March 28. — dpa
Squad:
Goalkeepers: David de Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Napoli), Sergio Rico (Sevilla).
Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Nacho (Real Madrid), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich), NachoMonreal (Arsenal).
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Ander Herrera (Manchester United) David Silva (Manchester City), Thiago (Bayern Munich), Asier Illarramendi (Real Sociedad), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Isco (Real Madrid), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona).
Forwards: Alvaro Morata (Real Madrid), Pedro (Chelsea), Diego Costa (Chelsea), Gerard Deulofeu (AC Milan), Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo),Vitolo (Sevilla).
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