Del Bosque unable to shed light on Silva, Morata injuries

“We have seen Diego Costa improve and he has no consequences from the injuries which held him back”, Del Bosque told Al Primer Toque radio show.

“As far as the way we play and renewing the team we have made progress”, Del Bosque said.

Del Bosque, who couldn’t hide his frustration regarding Costa’s antics in Chelsea’s win over Arsenal last month, didn’t include the forward for last week’s Euro 2016 qualifiers but says while competition for places is rife, he still “trusts” the 6ft 2in striker.

Del Bosque pointed to the fact that Costa was suspended against Luxembourg anyway after being booked against Macedonia and that was the reason why Costa was replaced by Alvaro Moratta in the recent squad. We’ll play with complete courage and interest in the game.

La Roja wrapped up qualification for Euro 2016 as Group C winners with a 4-0 victory over Luxembourg on Saturday, but the Coach claims only part of the job is done as he evoked memories of his team’s resounding win against Italy in Kiev three years ago.

“We have to congratulate ourselves because the defeat to Slovakia was burdensome”, he added. “Ukraine are looking to qualify but, as sportsmen, we have to try to stop them”.

“I’ve decided the starting XI and there will be changes from Logrono”.

After a slow start to the second half, Spain eventually doubled their lead in the 67th minute through substitute Paco Alcacer, who stabbed home a Cesc Fabregas through ball. I think it’s the best that we can do. He’s on a good run of form and we need to take advantage of that.

“Ukraine are a strong team”.

“Nolito opens up the space and gives us good depth. We value his dribbling for opening closed defences”.