Spanish nod for Navarro

Eye-catching form
The 29-year-old Navarro, who began his career with Valencia CF, has caught the eye this season in a Sevilla team which has the best defensive record in the Primera División.

Helguera suspension
With Iván Helguera suspended for the game against Ukraine in Kiev on 29 March and Carlos Puyol injured, Navarro gets his chance. "I had Javi Navarro in my side at the [2000] Olympics and he has had a very good season," Sáez said. "We've been looking at him in recent games. He concentrates well and is very strong. We will need a good marker against the Ukraine."

Valerón back 
There is also a surprise recall for RC Deportivo La Coruña midfield player Juan Valerón, even though he has only just returned from a second serious shin injury. "He is getting minutes with Deportivo and training with the squad," Sáez said. "He played well against Manchester United [FC] and has another chance this weekend. Valerón can give us 45 to 60 minutes of his best football and that's what I want. The sooner we get him back the better."

Maximum points
Spain lead qualifying Group 6 with maximum points from two matches, with Ukraine a point behind having played a game more, yet Sáez is wary ahead of the meeting of the sides. "They have five points, they haven't lost yet and have some quality players," he said. "Andriy Shevchenko is their best-known player and we must be alert because he is very fast and has real quality."

Spain squad
Casillas, Cañizares, César, Raúl Bravo, Salgado, Helguera, Navarro, Aranzabal, Marchena, Etxeberria, Xavi, Joaquín, Valerón, Albelda, Baraja, Vicente, Tristán, Guti, Raúl.