Wilhelmsson Surprised By Raúl's Spain Absence

Wilhelmsson has been a vital component of Deportivo's excellent form in the second half of the season since he joined in January after a generally unsuccessful spell on loan at Bolton in England and hopes that the regular first team football will put him in good stead for Euro 2008.

"It was important to have minutes and to arrive in good condition at the European Championships. For that reason I made the decision to leave England and come to Deportivo," he told AS.com

Sweden line up alongside Greece, Russia and Spain in Group D and Wilhelmsson knows that they face a tough task in order to reach the quarter finals.

"It is a powerful group. All the teams are strong. There are nothing but good teams in the finals. Perhaps Spain would be considered the slight favourites in the group, but anything can happen," he affirmed.

"Greece are the current holders. They are a strong team that achieved good results during qualification. Russia knocked out England and that says everything about them: they are very dangerous. Spain are always one of the favourites for the Euro's; on paper they have great players."

No Raúl

When quizzed further about Spain, Wilhelmsson revealed that he admires players like Fernando Torres, Andres Iniesta and Xavi and then suggested that he is somewhat perplexed by Raúl's continued absence from the squad.

"He is a great player and could be a great help to Spain. It is strange what he is happening with Raúl, but I do not know many details about the situation. I cannot really explain why he is not there," he asserted.

Aspiring To Glory

Wilhelmsson suggested Italy and Germany as the two favourites to win the competition, but believes that with a little good fortune, Sweden have a good chance of upsetting the big boys.

"With a little luck, Sweden can aspire to win the European Championships. You always need luck to get a good result in a great competition and it is necessary to try and be ambitious," he concluded.


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