Llorente keen on starting spot

Fernando Llorente has set his sights on a starting berth with Spain at the European Championship in Poland and Ukraine.

The 27-year-old Athletic Bilbao striker faces strong competition from Fernando Torres for a place in Spain’s first XI, and said he is doing his best to convince coach Vicente del Bosque of his worth.

“I want to work hard to prove that I can be a starter,” Llorente told reporters at a press conference.

“Alvaro Negredo moves well inside the area and he is a great finisher, while Torres opens up spaces, is very quick and is good in the air.”

As Spain prepare for their opening Euro 2012 contest against Italy, Llorente revealed he is not worried that their opponents may resort to negative tactics to stop the defending champions.

“It will be good if other teams take a defensive approach, because we would have possession of the ball and that is what we like,” he said.

Llorente’s future at Athletic has been a hot topic of debate in recent times, with the striker hinting last week at a Premier League move.

However, the Spaniard has now given a strong indication that he will not leave the Basque club.

“I am only focused on the national team, and when the Euros are over I will speak with Athletic about my renewal,” he said.