Soldado surprised by inclusion in Spain squad

01-Sep-2012 12:00:00 AM

Having missed Euro 2012 at the expense of Alvaro Negredo, the Valencia striker has promised to do all he can to stay part of Vicente Del Bosque's plans in the future

Roberto Soldado has admitted that he did not expect to be included in the Spain squad for their upcoming matches against Saudi Arabia and Georgia.

Despite a prolific season with Valencia, the forward was overlooked for Euro 2012 by national team coach Vicente Del Bosque, as the 61-year-old instead plumped for Sevilla's Alvaro Negredo.

Speaking to the press after learning of his selection, Soldado said: "It is always important to be called up, whether it be a friendly or a World Cup qualifier.

"Hopefully I will retain my place in the national side now. I've said many times that competition for a place in this squad is very strong.

"I am realistic and know that it will not be easy, but now that I have been given the chance by the coach I must take the opportunity.

It has been suggested that Soldado may be utilised in a position other than his favoured central-striking role, to which he commented: "Those of us called up will try to convince the coach that we can provide many options for the team."

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