DUESSELDORF, Germany (Reuters) – Spain coach Luis de la Fuente changed almost his entire starting lineup for Monday’s Group B clash against Albania with defender Aymeric Laporte the only player in the side that also began in their victory over Italy.
It was hardly a surprising move with Spain already assured of winning the group after impressive wins against Croatia and Italy and with several first-choice players nursing niggles or in danger of picking up a suspension.
Jesus Navas comes in at right back for Dani Carvajal and will wear the captain’s armband while on the left Alejandro Grimaldo replaces the rested Marc Cucurella. Martin Zubimendi will play in midfield with Rodri suspended.
Teenager Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are also rested while Real Madrid striker Joselu starts up front.
Albania, who have one point, must avoid defeat to keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage of a tournament for the first time. Manager Sylvinho made one change to the side that grabbed a last-gasp 2-2 draw with Croatia, Ivan Balliu coming in at right back in place of Elseid Hysaj.
Albania: Thomas Strakosha, Ivan Balliu, Mario Mitaj, Arlind Ajeti, Berat Djimsiti (c), Rey Manaj, Jasir Asani, Nedim Bajrami, Qazim Laci, Ylber Ramadani, Kristjan Asllani
Spain: David Raya, Jesus Navas (c), Dani Vivian, Aymeric Laporte, Alejandro Grimaldo, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino; Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Joselu
(Reporting by Martyn Herman; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
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