OleOle FIFA World Cup Football, news, pictures, scores, standings, players, teams

Mendieta determined to make squad

Lazio's out-of-favour midfielder Gaizka Mendieta hopes to claim a place in Spain's World Cup squad with a strong performance in their final warm-up game against Northern Ireland on Wednesday.
Mendieta has been out of favour with the Rome giants since his transfer in the close season from Valencia and has been linked with a move back to his homeland.

Having lost his place in the Spanish team he now hopes to force his way back into contention, and although he is likely to start on the bench against Northern Ireland he should figure at some stage of the game.

'There is no doubt this has been a shocking year for me, and with the World Cup almost upon us I have to show the Spanish public I am still a good player,' said Mendieta.

'It is vital that I go to the World Cup and that is all that is in my mind at the moment. I will have to prove that I deserve a place in the squad for Japan and South Korea and I am confident I can do that.

'Things have been very difficult for me in Italy - when your team isn't playing well it reflects on the players and I have suffered,' the midfielder added.

'My priority now is to play some part in this match with Northern Ireland and hopefully get back into the team before the World Cup begins.

'My opportunity is here and I have got to give it my all.