Alonso backs Torres for Euros

Former Spain international Xabi Alonso has backed Fernando Torres to earn a recall to Vicente del Bosque’s squad for Euro 2016 this summer.

Torres won two European crowns as well as the 2010 World Cup playing for La Furia Roja, but he has not represented his country since their group-stage exit at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The 32-year-old has been in fine form for Atletico Madrid in recent weeks, scoring five goals in his last six competitive appearances, and will be hoping to be on the scoresheet once again when Atleti take on Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.

Torres will come up against his former international colleague Alonso and the Bayern Munich midfielder believes the hitman is worthy of a recall to the Spanish set-up on current form.

Alonso said: “If he carries on playing like this, he’ll be in with a shout of going to the Euros, but that’s a decision for [Spain coach] Vicente del Bosque.”

Should Torres earn a place in Spain’s squad for Euro 2016, he will come up against the Czech Republic, Turkey and Croatia in Group D, with their first match against the Czechs taking place at the Stadium Municipal on June 13.

Spain are available at 1.67 to finish top of their group, while they are on offer at 1.07 to progress to the knockout stages.