Aragones putting faith in youth

Spain coach Luis Aragones is adamant his young side can put their country's poor World Cup record behind them and prosper in Germany this summer.

Despite a history of producing some of the finest players in Europe, Spain's best finish at the global showpiece is fourth in 1950.

Aragones is determined to improve on that and even believes his men can go all the way.

"We are going to Germany with a lot of enthusiasm, faith and confidence," he told Marca.

"We want to make history and we will not settle for anything less. But we realise that there are other teams that are as strong as we are.

"Leaving aside Brazil, who are above everybody else, Spain are among a group of good teams and I think it is going to be very level.

"It is understandable that the fans don't trust us because, historically, we have not achieved great results at the World Cup.

"But now the moment has come to prove game by game who we really are. It's not going to be easy to beat anyone but we must try."

Aragones has placed his trust in a young squad, with the likes of Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos - 19 and 20 respectively - expected to carry the hopes of the nation.

"The young players have a lot of ambition, this is their first big competition but the good thing about it is that you can always mould them to do what you want," added the veteran coach.

"I don't regret the players I am taking but I understand that people might have other views and I am willing to listen and respect them."  PA