Raul has come under heavy criticism over the past couple of seasons as he struggled to find his top-form. But the arrival of coach Fabio Capello has gave the 'golden boy' a great push.

"I'm very hopeful to play many years to come, although it depends on many circumstances, mainly my physical condition but I have the desire to continue," Raul said.

"I just want to be part of Spain's squad. The critics are part of football and it is necessary to accept their criticism."

The 29-year-old will make his 101st appearance with his national team when Spain take on Northern Ireland in Euro 2008 qualifiers on Wednesday.

Raul believes Spain will put their World Cup disappointment, when they were knocked-out of the quarter-finals at the hands of France, behind them in their Euro campaign.

"It is not easy to start playing again after the World Cup, but with victories, the spirit will rise again. We must ensure our qualification as soon as possible and make the Spanish people enjoy our football."

Raul said it is not important who will score the 1000th goal for Spain in international games as the team is just one goal short of reaching the milestone.

"The most important thing is to score the 1000th goal, not who scores it. Hopefully we can score many against Ireland," he said.