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Vicente Del Bosque pleased with Aritz Aduriz impact in Spain draw

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque was pleased with Aduriz's impact
Image: Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque was pleased with Aduriz's impact

Vicente Del Bosque paid tribute to Aritz Aduriz after the striker scored in Spain's draw with Italy on Thursday.

The Athletic Bilbao forward hit his first goal for his country at the age of 35 to help the reigning European champions secure a 1-1 draw in Udine.

Del Bosque was left pleased with the performance of Alvaro Morata and striker partner Aduriz, who "adapted perfectly" to Spain's style of play.

Aritz Aduriz scored his first goal for Spain at the age of 35 to give the European champions a fortuitous 1-1 draw away in Italy.
Image: Aritz Aduriz scored his first goal for Spain at the age of 35

"Aduriz performed well. He's adapted perfectly to our game," Del Bosque told reporters. "Morata played well in both positions. I'm satisfied with his work.

"David de Gea and Iker Casillas are good. We have absolute confidence in our goalkeepers. Italy made more chances than us, but we did good things."

The hosts went in front through Lorenzo Insigne mid-way through the second half, but Aduriz struck back three minutes later to level, although Del Bosque admitted Spain failed to reach their high standards as Italy had the better chances to win the game.

"We couldn't have possession of the ball. We needed to risk more. I hope we're in a better condition for Euro 2016," the manager added.

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Alvaro Morata of Spain in action during the international friendly against Italy
Image: Vicente Del Bosque was also pleased with Alvaro Morata

Aduriz, who has been in excellent form for Athletic this season, was pleased to make his return, six years after his previous national team appearance, and mark the occasion with a goal.

"I'm very happy to participate with the national team, it is a shame we did not win," Aduriz said.

"It is easy to get along with these players. They are very good and make your life easier. In the second half we were better, closer, although we have not created many chances."