Lopetegui selects Spain's World Cup penalty taker

This is what has been reported by Spanish newspaper 'AS', who claims that Silva has been chosen ahead of fellow experienced players such as Sergio Ramos, 'La Roja's captain.

Although yet to be made official, Lopetegui has allegedly informed his team so that there is "order" during play.

In addition, Silva will not only take penalties but the midfielder will be in charge of taking all set-pieces awarded to Spain unless he decides otherwise.

Silva will also be Spain's third captain, behind Ramos and Andres Iniesta. 

This decision only confirms Lopetegui's confidence in Silva, who featured in all of Spain's qualification games for the upcoming summer tournament.

With 35 goals, he is also the highest scorer in the squad going to be Russia and his experience will undoubtedly be invaluable.

The 2010 World Cup winners will begin their warm-up friendlies on Sunday, against Switzerland, before taking on Tunisia on June 9.