MADRID, Sept 30, (APP/AFP) – Napoli forward Jose Callejon has been included in Julen Lopetegui’s 22-man Spanish squad unveiled on Friday for 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Albania.
“We decided it would be fully appropriate to take him, we believe he can help us, that he can bring something extra,” Lapotegue said.
“He plays in a demanding team in a great league and if we are taking him it is because we feel he has things to offer us.”
Callejon’s Napoli are currently second in the Italian league and his brace in a one-sided 3-1 win at Palermo last weekend took the twice-capped 29-year-old’s tally to four goals in three league games so far.
Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has also returned from injury as Spain play Italy in Turin next Thursday before travelling to Albania on October 9.
“The return of Andres is a major boost for us,” the coach said. “He’s a major player.”
Spain won their opening Group G qualifier against minnows Liechtenstein 8-0 while Italy beat Israel 3-1 and Albania won 2-1 against Macedonia.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: David De Gea (Manchester United/ENG), Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA), Sergio Rico (Sevilla)
Defenders: Jordi Alba, Gerard Piqui, Sergi Roberto (FC Barcelona), Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal, Nacho (Real Madrid), Javi Martmnez (Bayern Munich/GER)
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Andris Iniesta (FC Barcelona), David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Sazl Qmguez, Koke (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Mznich/GER), Lucas Vazquez, Francisco Alarcsn “Isco” (Real Madrid)
Forwards: Diego Costa (Chelsea/ENG), Alvaro Morata (Real Madrid), Nolito (Manchester City/ENG), Vmctor Machmn “Vitolo” (Sevilla FC), Jose Callejon (Napoli/ITA)
