SPAIN
Caparrós: "If the Federation need me, I'll happily step forward"
The coach spoke to AS about the Spain post: "For every Spanish coach, the national team job has got to be the biggest dream of all".
Joaquín Caparrós (Utrera, 15 October 1955) spoke to AS from his home in Seville about the possibiulity that he could take charge of Spain's national team, replacing Vicente del Bosque.
When do you think you may get a phonecall?
I don't know, I don't know whether they will call. Villar already knows that I am fully at the Federation's disposal. But all of that depends on whether Vicente del Bosque, who is the best man for the job, decided to leave. Del Bosque should be given the utmost respect for everything that he has done and for all of the happiness he has given us. Winning the World Cup and the Euros is the ultimate, and no one can take that away from him.
How do you feel about the national team?
Just the same as we all do. I've been at all of the major tournament during the past few years - Euros and World Cups. I usually travel with my wife and my cousin. In this one, in France, my sons came along as well. I follow Spain's matches like every other Spaniard, wearing my red Spain jersey and my face painted with the red and yellow flag. I get very emotional when the national anthem starts up, just like every Spanish person does.
What are your thoughts on the current team; is it time to start renewing the side?
Those are details which must be addressed when the time arrives - if I get chosen. Out of respect for Del Bosque, I cannot enter into these matters. But, for example, all of the young players which he took to Austria, those who the press might call the deserving few, are valid for the current side. They are the future of the national team whoever takes over and has the honour of coaching Spain.
What can Caparrós offer the national team?
Joy, excitement, hard work and experience. I have been in charge for over 500 matches in the top flight and what I enjoy most is working with the youth team players. The Spain side is our youth team, the melting pot from which future champions emerge. It's a wonderful job.
