Senna pushing for starting role

Villarreal midfielder set to win battle for holding role

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 8th June 2008

Senna pushing for starting role

Senna: Versatile

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Marcos Senna is expected to make Spain's starting line-up for their Euro 2008 opener against Russia on Tuesday.

The Brazilian-born player is vying for the holding midfield role with Xabi Alonso, but looks set to edge out the Liverpool man.

Luis Aragones will deploy a defensive option in the middle of the park to counter the attacking instincts of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and David Silva.

Villarreal star Senna has been handed the post during recent training sessions but, with Getafe's Ruben da la Red also in the frame, he is taking nothing for granted.

"Luis Aragones hasn't confirmed yet if I will be in the starting line-up but I want to make sure I'm in top form so I'm ready when I'm needed," he said.

"I can play a little bit more forward or a little bit further back, wherever I'm needed and I'm comfortable in both positions.

"But there is huge competition for places. All of us feel like we're in the starting line-up."

Top shape

Barcelona ace Iniesta is expected to regain his place in the side despite sitting out Spain's final warm-up match against USA.

The playmaker suffered a stomach complaint in the build-up to that game, but insists that he is back to full fitness and ready for action.

"I lost a little bit of weight because of it and I don't have much to lose so I've tried to make sure I eat well," he said

"But I feel better now and will do all I can to ensure I'm in top shape for the game."

Iniesta is certainly hoping to be involved as he admits all the players are desperate to get their European Championship campaign up and running.

"We're just trying to kill time anyway we can," he added.

"We just want things to get started. Once the first game is over it all goes a bit quicker and things become more intense."