Brazil: Spain's World Cup squad is trying to stay upbeat in their last days in Brazil after reports that players were upset with Xabi Alonso for his unrepentant critique of the 2010 world champions.
Alonso said Spain lacked hunger and commitment to win following defeats to the Netherlands and Chile, and said changes were necessary.
"There's a lot of talk about this but we're a group that is united and Xabi Alonso is part of that," midfielder Santi Cazorla said on Friday at the team's training base. I don't think there is a lack of hunger or ambition in this team. These things happen. We all need to learn from this."
Questions are swirling around the team's future, with coach Vicente del Bosque's tenure also under scrutiny after the No. 1-ranked Spain, who entered the tournament as the world and European champion, lost their opening matches by a combined total of 7-1.
"Vicente has total support from this group," said Cazorla, as Spain prepared for its last Group B match against Australia at Curitiba on Monday. "I think the future is bright for Spain, there are a lot of young players ready to come through."
One of those is midfielder Koke, who is expected to play against Australia after he replaced Alonso in the 2-0 loss to Chile.
The Atletico Madrid playmaker was hesitant to laud a new "golden generation" of player, however.
"There is a new generation coming, in football there are always changes. But I feel like I'm just one more player in this group," the 22-year-old Koke said. "It's difficult to think the youngsters will be able to match this team and its history. We'll do our best."
Alongside Koke, Cesc Fabregas and Juan Mata look set to start on Monday, while defenders Raul Albiol and Juanfran Torres could also play for the first time in Brazil.
Goalkeeper Pepe Reina looked determined to get the starting nod in training after captain Iker Casillas endured two of his worst games for Spain. Manchester United goalie David de Gea did not train with the team on Friday as he recovers from a leg muscle injury.
Spain are last in Group B with a -6 goal difference, while Australia are third after losing to the Dutch 3-2 following a 3-1 defeat by Chile.
A defeat against the 62nd-ranked Australians would provide the ultimate humiliation for Spain, who have seen a run of three straight major tournament victories ended.
"We're professionals and we have to work, prepare for our last game," Koke said. "We need to relay a certain image, and remember that we're Spain."
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