Spanish players Iker Casillas, Andres Iniesta and Raul Albiol have given the thumbs up for FIFA’s 6+5 proposal to reduce the influence of foreigners on a country’s league. The new rule would mean that teams could field only 5 foreign players in their starting eleven.

The 6+5 rule would affect Casillas’ club Real Madrid, whose 25 member squad consists of 16 foreigners, and the regular starting eleven has only four Spanish players. “The law seems good to me, more than good, exceptional for the local players. It is not xenophobia or racism, but to look out for your own interests.” said the Spanish goal keeper.

Spain midfield man Andres Iniesta agrees with his goal keeper on FIFA’s new law. 'It is important. The more local players there are, the more options the national team coach will have to choose,' said Iniesta.

Raul Albiol’s Valencia will definitely benefit from this rule though, as they have a large number of Spanish players in their ranks. Albiol quoted in the Spanish Newspaper Marca – “This law is key for the home country and for Spanish football.”

Currently, Spain have larger issues in mind with the Euro 2008 Championships in Austria and Switzerland looming. They have been touted as one of the favourites to bring home the trophy, and with the strength and depth they have in their squad, not many will argue. But first, there is the task of performing well in their group which consists of Sweden, Russia and defending champions Greece.