Enrique: Jordi Alba Spain Exclusion Not Personal

By Joshua Walters

Spain Boss Luis Enrique has denied having a problem with Barcelona ace Jordi Alba, and says the left-back’s exclusion from the national team is as a result of ‘sporting decision’.

Spain play Wales and England in the UEFA Nations League, and Enrique’s, for the second consecutive time since he became La Furia Roja boss, did not include Jordi Alba, but says the decision is not personal.

“I do not discuss players who are not in the squad,” Enrique told reporters after the announcement of the squad on Thursday.”

“However, anyone not selected is because of sporting reasons, not personal ones and there are only 23 players who I can select – if possible, I could bring in many more who could do a job.”

“Paco Alcacer? I know him well, he was fantastic at Valencia and was with me at Barcelona, although he probably did not receive as much playing time as he would have liked.”

“He is now playing and doing very well at Dortmund, he is scoring goals because some players are unavailable, I am very happy.”

“Isco? His unavailability is complicated because he is a crucial player and there is no replacement who can do what he does for us.”

“This is an opportunity for other players to come in and show what they can do, to be alert and know they have the possibility for playing.

“Jonny Castro? He played many times at right back (for Celta Vigo) last season but now he is playing on the other side of the defence.”

“Alvaro Morata? He has not played much, maybe he can show me what he can do in the friendly with Wales ahead of the key clash with England.”