David Villa set to regain his first team place with La Roja


It’s the second training session of the Spanish team ahead of the clashes against Finland and France and the second time that Vicente del Bosque tries with David Villa in the starting lineup for Friday’s game against Finland. On returning to what was once considered his home, the top scorer in the history of the Spanish national team (53 goals in 86 games) is almost certain to return in the starting lineup in a competitive match – something which hasn’t happened for some 527 days.

The last qualifying match in which Villa got his goal tally up to 50 for the Euro 2012 played in Alicante on 11th October, 2011, was the last time that David Villa was a first team starter before the serious leg-break injury he picked up at the Club World Cup with Barca just a month later. Now, completely recovered and having a great time at this stage of the season, Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque knows he can count on the best goal scorer he’s ever had.

Silva and Valdés in, Alonso out

Yesterday’s training session left a few clues as to what may be the starting lineup of Spain against Finland tomorrow. The only doubt that Del Bosque may have is in the front line of the team. Tuesday’s training session with the frontline was with Cesc Fabregás, Pedro and David Villa, but yesterday’s session counted on Manchester City’s David Silva instead of Pedro.

Del Bosque also trained the midfield yesterday but without the double act that will surely start against France in Saint-Denis on Tuesday – Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso.

The niggling injury problems Xabi has wil certainly make Del Bosque save him for the France game to team him up in the midfield with Busquets, Iniesta and Santi Cazorla.

With Iker Casillas still out of action, his first injury since August 2007 opens up the door for Barcelona’s Victor Valdes. The first indication that Del Bosque will use him came in the friendly last February against Uruguay, when the Barca keeper played the full 90 minutes.

About Barca Blogger

My name's Steve aka Barca Blogger and one of the founding members of the team at Barcelonafcblog.com. I've been around since the blog started and we aim to bring you the most up to date information on this great club.