Turan optimistic of Turkey progression

Arda Turan is still hopeful Turkey can qualify from Group D at Euro 2016 and a win against Spain on Friday has been targeted by Barcelona’s attacking midfielder.

Turkey opened their campaign against Croatia on Sunday at the Parc des Princes looking to record their first win over the Croatians in normal time.

However, Fatih Terim’s men produced a lacklustre performance and they were deservedly beaten 1-0 when Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric fired in wonderful volley from the edge of the box in the first half. It could have been more for Ante Cacic’s side with Ivan Perisic heading against the bar from close-range after captain Darijo Srna rattled a free-kick against the woodwork.

Turan, who has scored 17 goals in 91 international appearances, was picked out in particular for a dreadful display and he was hauled off on 65 minutes.

The 29-year-old, who has apologised for the standard he produced, has sent out a rallying call to his troops in a bid to advance into the knockout stages. “We can still get out of the group and achieve something important,” he said. “We have to be united. We’ve played well, but on occasions it’s the individuals that make the difference. I hope we play better against Spain and that we can win.”

Turkey are the big outsiders at 7.00 to pick up a win over Spain, a draw is priced at 4.33 while the defending champions are 1.44 favourite to pile on the misery.

La Roja are unbeaten in their last 11 meetings with the Turks, winning six and drawing five, with most recent clash ending in a 2-1 victory back in 2009.