Apparently, Vicente del Bosque doesn't believe much in Raul's capabilities, as he preferred Fenerbahce's Daniel Guiza, who had some injury problems of late.

"I have always had my doubts about Raul. I am not a radical," commented the European champions coach.

"Negredo and Llorente also had a chance, but with Guiza, one must value the human side too as well as the fact that we are talking about a super professional.

"He had an injury and has not been starting for his team, but he is having few minutes and is vying for a place with Turkey international Semih Senturk.

"He is important for us and he helps us a lot. In the last game against Belgium he set up both goals for David Villa."

Barcelona skipper Carles Puyol was also excluded from the squad.

Del Bosque insists that the experienced defender was omitted only because of injury worries.

"We spoke with his coach and with him and the player said he would not play this Sunday and would be doubtful for the next one because he is not fit,” added the Spaniard.

"Because of that I preferred not to call him up."