Barcelona star Xavi insists England still represent a tough challenge, but he expects Spain to beat any team in the world.
Spaniard insists English still offer tough game
Barcelona star Xavi insists England still represent a tough challenge, but he expects Spain to beat any team in the world.
On the same day that Three Lions chief Fabio Capello claimed England cannot even contemplate playing like Spain, Xavi says that the English are still top class.
But he is still expecting to triumph at Wembley on Saturday evening.
"It's not easy and we know we're in London for a hard test against a very strong opponent," Xavi told the
Daily Mirror.
"But I'm optimistic. We believe that with our style, we can beat any rival.
"In any competition, in the World Cup or in the Euros, England are always among the favourites for the title.
"At Euro 2012 people think they have a chance to win. The English are difficult opponents. So Saturday will be a unique match for us. A hard test.
"I certainly wouldn't want them in the first group phase. They are always dangerous and a hard to beat with their talented players and spirit."
Xavi does not think England will be weak opponents despite the absence of key players like Wayne Rooney.
"I know England have important players missing and that's a setback for them," he added.
"But I don't think it means they are less powerful. They are still one of the best teams in the world.
"Rooney's absence is very important for England. But I watch the Premier League and it is the forwards who are the strongest players in England.
"Any problems any team have don't come from the attack. The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world for attacking players.
"Capello is a strategist, a very good tactician. With him in charge, England have improved defensively and it will not be easy to beat them at Wembley."
Special
Xavi admits Wembley is a special place, more so after Barca's Champions League triumph at the venue earlier this year.
"For me, Wembley will always be special," he said. "I remember it with great affection and to return to this stadium will be beautiful.
"This isn't a simple friendly match but a prestigious match.
"We're the World Cup champions and England are a big team. Our challenge is to offer a good image and to win.
"From our success at the World Cup we're expected to show that same level in every match. That brings its own pressure."
