Aragones backs deputies
22 Jun 2006 - 14:23:05
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- Aragones backs deputies
Spain boss Luis Aragones has urged his squad players to use Friday's clash against Saudi Arabia to stake a claim for a place in the team during the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Aragones' side have already booked their place in the last 16 with victories against Ukraine and Tunisia, giving the coach the opportunity to rest his first-choice players in the final Group H game.
"I'm going to make it difficult for myself by changing the team around," he said.
"Some coaches might prefer to play safe and choose the same team, but I'm not going to do that. Someone might play very well and I will risk criticism because he might not be chosen for the next game.
"I'm giving an opportunity to the others to express themselves. All the players have great quality and I'm sure they are going to play well and win the game.
"I've got as much confidence in this team as the other one."
Valencia veteran Santiago Canizares will deputise for Iker Casillas in goal, meaning Liverpool's Jose Reina is unlikely to see any action during the finals.