Roberto Martinez: 'Spain are better than in 2008'

Roberto Martinez believes that Spain's current squad are "better" than the team that won the European Championships in 2008.

La Roja head into tomorrow's Euro 2012 final against Italy looking to become the only nation to win three major international competitions in a row.

With that in mind, Wigan Athletic boss Martinez has insisted that Vicente del Bosque's side have improved over the previous four years.

"What you must understand is that Spain have got a really strong philosophy," Martinez told The Sun.

"That philosophy is how they keep the ball, how they are patient, how they play from the back and expose teams, how they defend.

"They are not worse than 2008, they are better. It was easier to beat them in 2008. They are more mature now and don't get exposed [as much]."

The bookmakers have priced Spain as the slight favourites to defeat Italy.