Uncertainty keeps Spanish players on their toes

KAMEN, Germany, June 9 (Reuters) Spain's players say they are approaching the World Cup with extra motivation as places in the starting line-up remain up for grabs.

''The fact that there is no set team means that everyone is more determined and motivated to win a place in the first match,'' full back Sergio Ramos told a news conference after training today.

''We know that it is all down to us and that is much better.'' Coach Luis Aragones has chopped and changed his players and experimented with several tactical formations during the three warm-up matches against Russia, Egypt and Croatia in which the team extended its unbeaten run to 22 matches.

Aragones says he is clear about the way the team will play but has deliberately played his cards close to his chest about his preferred starting line-up in the World Cup itself.

Brazilian-born midfielder Marcos Senna said that one of the strengths of the side was the different styles which they could adopt.

''Luis (Aragones) has got a number of options available to him,'' he said. ''He can go for more strength or more skill and that is a big advantage.

''The important thing for us is that the team feels good. We know it is going to be a very tough competition but we are very happy with our preparations and are really looking forward to it.'' Fellow midfielder Cesc Fabregas, the youngest member of the squad, stressed that Spain's aim was to ensure they always had the control of the ball and deprived their opponents of possession.

''The coach and us want the same thing and that is to make sure that we keep the ball as long as possible. That's our style and it suits us, so that's what we are trying out in training.

''We've got plenty of options in all positions and there's a great atmosphere amongst the players and we are enjoying ourselves.'' Spain trained for the second time at their World Cup base in the Sportschule Kaiserau in Kamen today in front of a handful of picknicking school children and a small group of visiting Polish fans.

The players mixed fitness tests with mini matches in a relaxed atmosphere as they prepared for their opening game against Ukraine in Leipzig on June 14. They then face further matches against Tunisia and Saudi Arabia in Group H.

REUTERS DH BST1741