Arteta not giving up on Spain dream

Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta thinks Spain have the best midfield in the history of football, but has not given up hope of playing for his country.

The former Everton star feels the 2010 World Cup winners have six of the top 20 players in the world fighting it out for three midfield positions.

“I just watch them play and say ‘wow’. I think it’s the best midfield the world has ever seen,” Arteta told the Arsenal website.

“You cannot find a selection of players to match (Xabi) Alonso, (Andres) Iniesta, (Cesc) Fabregas, (David) Silva, (Sergio) Busquets and Xavi – six of the top 20 players in the world going for three positions. So what can you do?”

The 29-year-old has represented Spain at under-21 level, but has yet to break into the senior side.

However, he has not given up hope of making it just yet.

“I was very close a few times to having the chance to go, but for one reason or another it didn’t happen,” he said.

“I’m going to keep fighting though, that’s for sure – it’s one of my targets and I won’t stop going for it because I really want to represent my country.”

“The level of the team is incredible though, so I know how hard it will be. The exposure of being at Arsenal will help, so now it’s up to me – if I do really well here, then perhaps I have a chance.”