By Paul Giblin
MOSCOW, June 6 (Xinhua) -- Reports in the Spanish media suggest that Spain coach Fernando Hierro is considering a change in goal for their last 16 clash against Russia in the Luzhniki stadium on July 1.
Although Spain qualified to meet the World Cup hosts in knockout stages of the tournament as the winners of Group B, they only amassed 5 points with a 3-3 draw against Portugal, a fortunate 1-0 win over Iran and a 2-2 draw against Morocco on Monday night.
Most worrying for Hierro has been the defensive frailty shown by his players and the poor form of goalkeeper David de Gea.
The Manchester United keeper came into the World Cup with a reputation as being one of the best in the world, but committed a bad error to gift Portugal's second goal of the game and stats show that in Spain's first three matches he has managed to make just one save.
Meanwhile he has looked nervous on crosses, while his distribution has also been below par, leading to suggestions that Athletic Club Bilbao goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga could get the nod in the Luzhniki.
Hierro defended De Gea following his error in Sochi against Portugal, but appeared to have changed his message on Monday night saying.
"There are things that definitely need to be worked on, and we will definitely be self-critical."
"Five goals in three matches is not the way forward, I've told the players that. But they are professionals and understand... if they score against us so easily it will be very difficult to reach the ultimate goal."
Kepa has enjoyed an excellent season with Athletic Club, but has made only one appearance for the Spanish national side as Spain beat Costa Rica 5-0 in November 2017.
