Fernando Hierro says that David Villa’s contribution will once again be key for Spain when they face Germany in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final.
Villa has bagged five goals thus far to lead the scoring charts at the finals in South Africa, and former La Roja captain Hierro thinks his importance cannot be overestimated as Spain look to repeat their Euro 2008 success over Joachim Loew’s side.
"It is very important to have such players like Villa in the team and in all the games we have played in this World Cup Villa has come through for us. He's done so well I think he will win the Golden Boot award," Hierro was quoted as saying by football365.com.
"He's been the best player in the Spanish team, but having said that I have to add that I have great confidence in the whole team, not only Villa, that we are going to win against Germany.
"What I can say to the team is that the most important thing is to be focused. I actually think we can win this tournament but we obviously have to get past Germany and like I said that will be very difficult.”
Hierro also added his backing for Villa’s fellow striker Fernando Torres, a player who has not looked fit despite starting four and playing in all five of the side’s games thus far.
"I still think he can pick himself up in this tournament especially at this very important stage," Hierro added of the man who got the winner against the Germans two years ago.
"He is a fantastic player and I still think he is very important to the national team. I hope the press in Spain supports him."