Unselected Spain XI : Talent to the brim

Spain’s embarrassment of footballing riches was highlighted by their latest squad announcement for the friendly match with Italy, as several massive names were omitted from Vicente Del Bosque’s selection.

While the likes of Diego Costa receive a call-up to the squad, a number of regular members for La Roja will be kicking their heels and watching from home in this rematch of the Euro 2012 final, with a number of Premier League stars left out.

Meanwhile, England selected Tom Cleverley. All hope is gone.

Here is an eleven of Spain players, who despite being fit, didn’t make the squad.

GK – David De Gea (Manchester United)

It won’t be long before De Gea does get his chance in the full squad, but for now he has to wait, as Spain still have an embarrassment of riches to fill the void between the posts.

Iker Casillas, Victor Valdes and Pepe Reina have all been called up to face Mario Balotelli and coand it seems ridiculous that Spain can simply afford to not select the likes of De Gea and Sergio Asenjo.

Casillas has not made a single league appearance for Real Madrid this season, but De Gea has made more saves per goal than Reina, making 2.13 saves per concession compared to the Napoli man’s 1.74. Valdes has made 3.33 saves per goal conceded this season.