Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea says he has seen more hunger in the Spain squad than anxiety over their World Cup defence.
De Gea, yet to win an international cap with Real Madrid’s Champions League winner Iker Casillas Spain’s mainstay in goal since 2000, is itching for his debut.
It is this competition for places that keeps the ambition burning bright amid Vicente del Bosque’s twice European Championship and 2010 World Cup-winning squad, says the 23-year-old De Gea.
“There are players in this squad who have won everything at club and international level, but you never lose that fire in the belly,” he said on United’s website.
“It’s true that there’s very good work being done in the youth teams. We try to emulate the senior squad and young players are being given the chance to make the step up.”
De Gea says he has no idea if a first cap is around the corner, but rather than sit idly he is gearing himself up for the big day.
“We don’t know who’s going to play against Bolivia, but we have to be ready in case we get the nod,” he said.
“I’m raring to make my debut. There’s a lot of competition in goal, but I’m enjoying myself and pushing myself to the max in training.”
Spain play Bolivia in Seville on May 30 before they fly to the United States for a clash with El Salvador on June 7.
Main image courtesy of Jason Cairnduff/Action Images, with thanks.
