Sergi Roberto talks up full-back role for Spain

Sergi Roberto has revealed that Spain boss Julen Lopetegui is now considering the 24-year-old as a full-back option, following the footsteps of Barcelona manager Luis Enrique.

Roberto came through the La Masia system as a central midfielder, but has started the new season as Barcelona's first-choice right-back after Dani Alves left for Juventus in the summer transfer window.

The midfielder-turned-defender has now confirmed that he will operate as a right-back in the Spain squad under new head coach Lopetegui.

"There's competition in all positions here. Julen is counting on me as a full-back, but there are top players like Juanfran who aren't here. The coach has opted for me and [Dani] Carvajal, and I must keep working hard to stay here," Roberto told AS.

Spain are currently preparing for Monday's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein.