Spanish midfielder Marcos Senna appears to have been chosen to play the role of the defensive midfielder ahead of Xabi Alonso for Spain in the upcoming European Championships. The midfield man, who guided Villarreal to a second place finish in the La Liga, will now have a shot at bringing honours to his country.

His main rival Xabi Alonso hasn’t had a stunning season with Liverpool, while Ruben De La Red’s inexperience could hold against him. Thus a role behind the three attackers – Xavi, Iniesta, and Silva, is all but his.

“Luis Aragones hasn't confirmed yet if I will be in the starting lineup but I want to make sure I'm in top form so I'm ready when I'm needed.”

“I can play a little bit more forward or a little bit further back, wherever I'm needed and I'm comfortable in both positions. But there is huge competition for places. All of us feel like we're in the starting lineup.” said Senna.

Meanwhile, news comes in that Andres Iniesta is recovering well from a stomach bug he had suffered earlier this week. Iniesta said, “I lost a little bit of weight because of it and I don't have much to lose so I've tried to make sure I eat well. But I feel better now and will do all I can to ensure I'm in top shape for the game”

Spain opening game of the Euro 2008 is against Russia on Thursday.