Alonso ready to solve Spain midfield problem

SPAIN midfielder Xabi Alonso insists he can build a potent midfield partnership with fellow playmaker Xavi as he prepares for tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier at home to Belgium.

Injuries to Cesc Fabregas and Andres Iniesta have left Alonso as the obvious choice alongside Barcelona star Xavi and defensive enforcer Marcos Senna for the clash at Deportivo La Coruna’s Riazor stadium.

“I have been working with Xavi and I think it went well,” he said yesterday after training.

“And when I play with Senna, it is no problem either.”

Spain are currently six points clear of Bosnia-Herzegovina at the top of Group Five with four matches remaining in their qualification campaign and appear set to join Holland – the only European side to secure their place in next year’s finals so far – in South Africa.

The Belgium match promises to be a sentimental return to Galicia for full-back Joan Capdevila, who enjoyed a successful spell at Depor before joining his current side, Villarreal, in 2007. But first and foremost Capdevila is focused on securing three vital points tomorrow.

“Spain are leading the table and we depend only on ourselves, so we can control our own future by winning both of our remaining games,” he said.

“It will be special for me to return to the Riazor, where I had seven years and was treated so well.”

While Capdevila and Alonso are experienced members of the national team, the likes of Gerard Pique, Juan Mata and Sergi Busquets have all joined them in the squad despite their inexperience. Barca midfielder Busquets, 21, admits his rapid rise has taken even him by surprise.

“Hopefully it will be the beginning of a long career for both my club and the national team,” he said.