Hiero confirms that De Gea will start for Spain against Russia

It has been confirmed that David de Gea will keep his place in the Spain team for their match against Russia in Moscow on Wednesday. This is what Spain's coach, Fernando Hierro, told Spanish national radio in an interview earlier today. He also stated that Diego Costa would continue to lead the line for 'La Roja'.

When asked whether De Gea would start against Russia he responded with a simple "yes" to end any potential debate about the Manchester United stopper being replaced. "The rest of the team you'll have to wait and see." He did reveal that Diego Costa would start against Russia too. "He's played three matches as a starter and scored three goals, that's how he's responding (to criticism)."

All signs point to Hierro making very few chances to the team which topped Group B. While finishing first in the group was positive, not everything about Spain's start to the tournament has been. Even Hierro himself admitted "this isn't the way" following the draw against Morocco. However it appears that Hierro will keep faith in those who got him to the Last 16 and hope the performances, as a result, improve with continuity.