Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Spain team news: Predicted Spain line up vs Croatia – Real Madrid duo injured
SPAIN manager Luis Enrique has a number of selection issues ahead of his side's upcoming Nations League clash with Croatia in Zagreb (7.45pm).
Spain are targeting top spot in Group 4 of League A in the Nations League when they take on Croatia on Thursday.
Luis Enrique’s side know another three points would secure first place, having smashed six goals past the 2018 World Cup finalists in the reverse fixture.
However, Spain were stunned by England last time out with a 3-2 defeat in Seville and will hope to get back to winning ways here.
However, La Roja are without a number of key players including Real Madrid defenders Dani Carvajal and Nacho.
Carvajal has been struggling with injury all season and is expected to be replaced by Chelsea star Cesar Azpilicueta.
Meanwhile, Nacho is also sidelined so Inigo Martinez, Diego Llorente or Mario Hermoso will partner Sergio Ramos.
Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has been recalled by Enrique, despite the pair’s fractious relationship, and should slot back into the rearguard.
Wolves defender Jonny is also an option but Koke, Thiago and Diego Costa are all unavailable.
Pau Lopez, Hermosa and Brais Mendez are searching for their first international caps, but Sergio Busquets and Saul Niguez are certain starters.
Dani Ceballos. Rodri and Sergio Roberto provide competition in midfield although striker Paco Alcacer has been left out of the squad despite 12 goals across all competitions this season.
Both Marco Asensio and Isco have been struggling for form domestically this season and are in danger of being overlooked in favour of Rodrigo and Iago Aspas.
Alvaro Morata is also in contention as part of a three-man attack after finally hitting his stride for Chelsea in recent weeks.
Spain predicted line-up vs Croatia – Nations League
(4-3-3) De Gea; Azpilicueta, Ramos, Martinez, Alba; Busquets, Niguez, Ceballos; Aspas, Asensio, Morata