Spain squad: Alberto Moreno, Luis Alberto handed call-ups
Spain coach Julen Lopetegui has announced his 25-man squad for this month's international friendlies against Costa Rica and Russia.
Spain head coach Julen Lopetegui has announced his 25-man squad for the November friendlies against Costa Rica and Russia, with Alberto Moreno and Luis Alberto the most notable new faces.
Maiden call-up for Lazio's Luis Alberto
Liverpool left-back Moreno is recalled after a three-year absence, while Lazio attacking midfielder Alberto is included for the first time.
Vitolo and Andrés Iniesta also come in, while Nacho Monreal, Pedro Rodríguez, César Azpilicueta and Koke drop out of the squad.
Spain host Costa Rica in Málaga on Saturday 11 November, before travelling to face Russia in Saint Petersburg three days later.
Lopetegui discusses Parejo, Costa, Villa
Speaking to the media after announcing the list, Lopetegui revealed that Valencia midfielder Dani Parejo had been under serious consideration, but missed out as "there isn't space for everyone".
However, he added: "He's playing excellently and he could be called up at any time."
Asked about centre-forward Diego Costa, who is ineligible to play for Atlético Madrid until the New Year, he said: "We'll see from January, but he's in our plans."
On striker David Villa, who was handed a recall in September but has not returned since, he said: "He isn't in today, but he could be in the future."
Spain squad to face Costa Rica and Russia:
GOALKEEPERS: David de Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Napoli) and Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic).
DEFENDERS: Álvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad), Gerard Piqué (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Nacho Fernández (Real Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Marc Bartra (Borussia Dortmund) and Alberto Moreno (Liverpool).
MIDFIELDERS: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Thiago Alcántara (Bayern), Andrés Iniesta (Barcelona), Isco Alarcón (Real Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid), Saúl Ñíguez (Atlético), Asier Illarramendi (Real Sociedad), Luis Alberto (Lazio) and Suso (Milan).
FORWARDS: Vitolo (Las Palmas), José Callejón (Napoli), Álvaro Morata (Chelsea), Iago Aspas (Celta) and Rodrigo (Valencia).
