Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has revealed that he never expected to be included in Spain's Euro 2012 squad following an inconsistent season with the Blues.
The 28-year-old received a call-up from national boss Vicente del Bosque, despite a difficult season at Stamford Bridge, which included rare starting spots for the former Liverpool frontman.
"Yes, I saw myself out of the list," Torres told his official website. "I never received a call with such enthusiasm. Spain have won the right to be called favourites and we have to accept this tag, but it is is worthless because you have to prove it on the field.
"Three titles in a row is something no-one has done before. If we can achieve it we will be a world reference because people will be talking about this generation for many years."
Meanwhile, Barcelona striker David Villa will play no part in the European and World Cup winners' campaign as he continues to recover from a broken leg.
Danielle Joynson
