'We are favourites for the Euros and we're going to play like it"

"To be selected for Spain is an enormous honour after all the hard work that has been put in to get me this far. My family and friends are delighted and this fills me with pride as they have always beliveved in me" Canales said proudly.

The midfielder has thrived at Real Betis under the management of Quiqe Setien after struggling before with a long run of injuries, which threatened to end his career. "After each injury, I have been a differerent player. I feel I am better in every aspect of my game and I have learnt a lot. I have more energy, I'm more mature and I am better on the pitch" He continued in his positive manner.

Canales has announced his intentions for the 2 Euro qualifiers after being selected by Spain for the first time: "I am going to give 200% to enjoy this incredible opportunity. We are setting out to win each match because that is what Luis Enrique has said to us. He knows that we have belief and we know that we are the favourites for the Euros. We are going to play like it" 

"We are very lucky to be here. I only want what is best for the team and right now that is winning these two games" added the Spaniard. Canales was also questioned about the incredible performance of Lionel Messi at the Benito Villmarin, which he described as "an exhibiton." "Messi is always special. The whole world knows that" Messi scored a hat-trick as Barcelona triumphed 4-1 to go 10 points clear at the top of La Liga.