Juanfran thrilled by Euro prospects

Spain defender Juanfran has spoken of his excitement at the prospect of playing in his major championship at Euro 2012.

The Atletico Madrid right-back only made his international debut for the world and European champions last month, but was called up as part of the 23-man squad which travelled to Poland and Ukraine.

Now Juanfran, who enjoyed an impressive campaign with Atletico as they won the Europa League last season, hopes he has done enough to stake a claim in the side when the holders meet Italy on Sunday.

“(I’m) feeling very good, very excited. It is a new experience. It’s my first European Championship, and what I want most is to be important to the team,” the 27-year-old told Marca.

“I’m training hard for the coach to see me as a player you can count on at any moment. I am ready and willing to (give) 100 percent.

“I have that faith … if I’m here, it’s because he (coach Vicente del Bosque) trusts me.”

Following their Group C opener against Italy, Spain face matches against the Republic of Ireland and Croatia.