Spain’s preparations for their World Cup quarter-final against co-hosts South Korea have been hit by a mini injury crisis leaving coach Jose Antonio Camacho sweating on the fitness of several players.
Strikers Raul and Diego Tristan allonmg with midfielder David Albelda are all doubtful for Saturday’s game.
“Raul wants to play, but even if he does play he won’t be 100 percent fit,” said team doctor Genaro Borras. “It is obvious he will not be completely right after missing five days training.”
Raul is the chief concern for Camacho and the Real Madrid striker was restricted to a light jog during Friday’s training session.
Clubmate Fernando Morientes, believes that Raul would be betetr advised to sit out the match rather than risk playing at less than 100 per cent fit.
“I do not know if he (Raul) will play but if he is not 100 per cent I do not think he should play,” said Morientes.
“He is the sort of player who needs to be at his best physically to play well.
“We all know his importance to the team but, if we have to, Spain will play without him and do our best. I like to play alongside him but if he is not there I will just have to partner somebody else.”
Tristan meanwhile is suffering from a groin strain, as well as an ankle knock. Albelda has still not recovered from a testicular strain which forced him to leave the field during Spain’s second round tie with Ireland.
