Reyes still has Euro 2004 chance, says Spain boss

Arsenal striker Jose Reyes still has a chance of playing at Euro 2004, according to Spain coach Inaki Saez.

Despite Reyes not being included in the squad for tonight’s friendly with Italy in Genoa, and with the tournament in Portugal just six weeks away, Saez has offered hope to the pacy 20-year-old.

Saez says he is undecided about whether to take Reyes or Deportivo La Coruna’s in-form striker Albert Luque, who was also omitted for this week’s clash.

“(Reyes) and Luque will have to fight for one spot,” said Saez. “The important thing right now for Reyes is that he concentrates on the English Premiership.”

Saez also admits he is not quite sure where to play Reyes, who joined the newly-crowned Premiership champions from Sevilla in January’s transfer window.

“I know what qualities Reyes has,” he continued. “But it’s a question of placing him in the right position.”

Saez has a host of talent at his disposal in attack.

Real Madrid captain Raul will be a certain starter for matches if passed fit, but there are a number of forwards vying to join him.

At the moment Monaco’s Fernando Morientes – on loan from Real Madrid – is the favourite after showing some tremendous form in helping the Principality club reach the Champions League last four.

Depor’s Juan Carlos Valeron and Atletico Madrid’s Fernando Torres have also impressed this term, while Valencia’s Miguel Angel Mista is the second leading scorer in the Primera Liga with 19 goals.