Spain's Juanfran excited by Euro prospects

Spain defender Juanfran has admitted that he is excited by the prospect of playing in his first major tournament at Euro 2012.

The Atletico Madrid right-back made his international debut last month, but did enough to be called up as part of the 23-man squad in Poland and Ukraine.

Juanfran, who performed impressively for Atletico last season as they won the Europa League, said that he hopes he has done enough to stake a claim in the side when the holders meet Italy on Sunday.

"[I'm] feeling very good, very excited. It is a new experience. It's my first European Championship, and what I want most is to be important to the team," the 27-year-old told Marca.

"I'm training hard for the coach to see me as a player you can count on at any moment. I am ready and willing to [give] 100%.

"I have that faith, if I'm here, it's because [Spain coach Vicente del Bosque] trusts me."

Spain face the Republic of Ireland and Croatia after their opener against Italy.