How Spain Should Lineup Against Portugal

There is the growing sensation that Spain are on the up again. It's been a tough few years for the 2010 World Cup winners, who, having dominated Europe and the planet for over half a decade, soon came crashing back down to earth.

Things haven't quite been the same since, but there are flickers of optimism surrounding the new crop of young, hungry talents, making their way in the game today. Luis Enrique's men snatched a last-gasp draw against Germany in the opening Nations League match last time out, and followed it up with a 4-0 drubbing of Ukraine. Not bad.

A month later, and la Furia Roja are being asked to do it all again, as they face Switzerland and Ukraine once more in their Nations League duties. Before that double header however, is the small matter of a friendly against Portugal.

So, who are the lucky chicos to get the nod for Spain on Wednesday evening? 90min offers up the starting XI which Enrique should select for their highly-anticipated clash with Cristiano Ronaldo and Co.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

David De Gea (GK) - Despite his obvious flaws and horrid lack of form of late, De Gea remains Spain's first-choice keeper. In fairness, the next best option is Kepa Arrizabalaga, so you can see why Dave the Save is not too worried.

Jesus Navas (RB) - Arguably La Liga's best right-back last year, Navas should start in the defence against Portugal. The former Manchester City man has bags of experience, and that'll come in handy on Wednesday evening.

Sergio Ramos (CB) - This guy just wants as many caps as possible. Only a handful of appearances away from the most international caps in football history, woe betide any man who stands in Ramos' path.

Pau Torres (CB) - Spain are still on the lookout for Ramos' rightful partner, although they are yet to strike gold. Until then, Torres looks to be the best alternative.

Jose Gaya (LB) - Sergio Reguilon may be the long-term first choice left-back, but given the number of games he is expected to play for Tottenham Hotspur in the coming weeks, he may be spared for the main event against Switzerland. Instead, Gaya could step in to stake his claim.

Midfielders

Rodri (CDM) - Rodri provides the perfect cover for his array of offensive teammates in this fluid Spain side. With Sergio Busquets on the wrong side of 30, it may be time for the Man City star to nail down this position as his own.

Fabian Ruiz (CM) - The Napoli man is a vintage Spanish midfielder, and his mix of craft and technique makes him one of the most aesthetically pleasing players to watch in the modern game. What a star.

Dani Ceballos (CM) - Back in form with Arsenal, Ceballos is a safe bet for this Spain midfield. His career began to stall at Real Madrid, but he is coming into his own under Mikel Arteta's beady eye.

Forwards

Adama Traore (RW) - Traore knows how to get a crowd off its feet. There may not be many (if any) supporters in the stands, but those watching at home will be in for one hell of a ride with the Wolverhampton Wanderers winger.

Ansu Fati (LW) - Woweee, what a player. Absolutely crushing it with Barcelona, Fati has already made history on the international scene, becoming Spain's youngest ever goalscorer. Same again please, Ansu.

Rodrigo (ST) - The Leeds United forward has seen his game time limited since moving to Elland Road, but he is showing signs of learning the Marcelo Bielsa way. Until then, Enrique knows the striker's capabilities, and he should be in the first team to face Portugal.