Jordi Alba tells Spain's critics: "Don't get on our backs just yet"
The Barcelona left back has defended Spain's opening performances at the World Cup in Russia, claiming both games were difficult
Barcelona's left back, Jordi Alba, has defended Spain's first two performances at the World Cup despite widespread criticism that the team hasn't been good enough in Russia.
"This (the criticism) happens because they know what it is to win. Before, because they didn't use to win, it didn't happen. And I say this without meaning to disrespect anyone who played for Spain before," said the opinionated Alba. "We are like that, we like to see the bad instead of the good. But we have to be positive in life, knowing that we can still improve, but wait a while before you start getting on our backs," he added, laughing.
Even before then, in response to other questions, Alba revealed a certain tone regarding what he feels is unfair criticism of the team at this tournament. "Luckily we're winning! What we need to remember is that things are going well, even though they can always improve, and we aren't trying to fool anybody."
Alba also shot down claims that the team wasn't physically up to speed yet. "I'm always honest. Physically, we're very good. We've dominated every game and the 1-0 was good for us. Maybe we dropped off a little in the second half."
Even still, the Barça defender valued the fact the team is playing good football whilst also reducing the amount of goals they are conceding. "Defensively, the three goals against Portugal came from set pieces and one unfortunate mistake. The sensations around the camp are positive. In other competitions this wasn't the case, but we need to remember that any team is capable of beating another and could knock you out of the tournament."
Going back to the last match against Iran, Alba chose not to criticise the way the Iranians played like some of his teammates have. "Iran played their match, everyone back in defence and when they cleared the ball it was always a long ball to the striker. Their tactics were really good because it was very difficult for us to get in behind when they had so many players in their own box. In the end, a fortunate bit of play saw us score the goal but the sensations were good. I think we played well."
Alba also spoke about the rumours linking him with a move to Tottenham but said there was nothing to them.
