Coral’s incredible Spain all-star absentee starting XI

Spain boss Vicente del Bosque (odds-on with Coral at 1/8 to win Euro 2016 qualifying Group C) is blessed with incredible squad depth that most international coaches could only dream of.

The World Cup winner even recently warned sidelined Chelsea superstars Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas not to take their international spots for granted. Del Bosque said: “It could be that when Costa and Fabregas come back another player has taken their place. That is not a threat, it’s just reality.”

With such an abundance of top quality options at his disposal, Coral writers decided to see how strong La Roja’s XI would be with the players who didn’t, or couldn’t, make Del Bosque’s final cut.

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: DAVID DE GEA
Currently nursing a broken thumb, Manchester United’s nimble number one would certainly have made Spain’s squad if fit. What is less sure is whether the talented custodian would start ahead of Del Bosque’s favoured keeper Iker Casillas, despite the latter’s long run of poor form.

Right back: DANIEL CARVAJAL
Real Madrid full back Carvajal was injured on club duty, losing the chance to stake his claim for a place ahead of experienced option Juanfran and the ever-impressive Cesar Azpilicueta. At just 22, the talented youngster still has time on his side, however.

Centre back: JAVI MARTINEZ
Despite at times appearing out-of-favour with club boss Pep Guardiola, accomplished anchorman Martinez was key to Bayern Munich’s success last season. Sidelined with a long-term injury, his return will undoubtedly be a boost to La Roja too. Also able to play as a centre half, the Basque possesses enviable vision, tenacity and composure.

Centre back: INIGO MARTINEZ
The Real Sociedad defender was once heavily linked with a switch to Barcelona, but those rumours dissipated following a significant dip in his, and his side’s, form. Commanding and solid on his day, new coach David Moyes will need to work his magic on the Spaniard and improve his consistency if he is to earn a recall.

Left back: ALBERTO MORENO
Sevilla academy product Moreno has had a mixed time since making a summer switch to Liverpool. Despite regularly turning out for the Reds, the attacking full back is still very much an understudy to international teammate Jordi Alba.