Del Bosque to manage drained Spain

Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has stated that some of his players are drained following their run to the Euro 2012 semi-finals.

The admission comes on the same day as a Spanish physiotherapist lamented the extra two days of rest afforded to, their opponents on Wednesday, Portugal.

A schedule of four games in 13 days appears to have taken its toll on the Spain squad, and Del Bosque says he will definitely factor fatigue into his starting line-up selection.

“We have two fewer days to rest than them. It is a small handicap,” the 61 year-old told reporters, saying the heat had taken its toll on the team.

Despite Spain being criticised in some quarters for not fully emulating their usual impressive ‘tika-taka’ style, Del Bosque says playing in a more defensive way will serve his team well in their attempt to become the first team to win three major competitions on the trot.

“The truth is we did well and controlled the game,” said Del Bosque, referring to his side’s 2-0 win over France.

“[Goalkeeper] Iker Casillas hardly had anything to do and that speaks of the good defensive performance of the team,” he said.

“If our defenders are good then we will be closer to winning the tournament because we will always create a chance.”