Koke: 'Cristiano wins matches so we have to be ready'

Koke spoke at a press conference in Karsnodar ahead of the World Cup hosted in Russia this summer. He said: "Above all, we are preparing by looking at ourselves, trying to capitalise on our strengths and improve our shortcomings. Yes it is true that we also play according to our opponents, we study them, but we do not look at Cristiano individually, but rather, at the whole group.''

"Cristiano wins matches and we have to be careful, but Portugal has great players. They are the current European champions and we have to play well if we want to win the game." Koke stressed that the squad are: ''very involved, 100 per cent and ready to give the best they have.'' 

The Spaniards are not seeking out a draw though, the midfielder said: ''What you want is to win, you never go out on the pitch to draw matches. You always go out to win, and the best result is a victory.''

His spot in starting lineup is not yet cemented, but Koke said: ''Every game is important. I don't know if I'll play or not, but I'm ready for what the coach decides. If I get to play, I'll give everything and if I have to support my team-mates from the bench, I'll do it.''

The 26-year-old is heading into his second World cup, eager to erase the bitter memory of the previous, where Spain were promptly knocked out in the first round by Brazil.