Aragones has a go at detractors

Group F/ Denmark 1 Spain 3: Spain coach Luis Aragones took the opportunity to have a dig at his detractors after this win on Saturday put the side in a strong position to qualify.

Goals from Raul Tamudo, Sergio Ramos and debutant Albert Riera put Spain level on 22 points with leaders Sweden at the top of Group F.

Northern Ireland are third on 16 points, with Denmark two points further back in fourth. Northern Ireland face Sweden away this Wednesday. Spain have played a game more than the other three.

"The debate (over my position) can take place and I accept it, as I do the criticism, but what I cannot accept are the insults," said Aragones, who had refused to speak to the media after the last match against Latvia.

"I am experienced enough to handle all this, but it affects the players because I am their coach and boss."

After some unimpressive displays, drawing 1-1 away in Iceland, and beating Latvia 2-0 at home, Spain scored three well-worked goals in Aarhus, though had to rely on some fine saves from Iker Casillas towards the end to see them home.

Especially pleasing for Aragones will have been Tamudo's contribution. The Espanyol striker opened the scoring in 14th minute with a header, forcing Denmark to came out and attack, and then provided the pass for Ramos to score the second at the end of a flowing move in the 40th, for a 2-0 lead.

Looking ahead to Spain's remaining games at home to Sweden and Northern Ireland next month, Aragones remained cautious.

"In football, until you are qualified mathematically you cannot be sure of anything," he said.

© 2007 The Irish Times

This article appears in the print edition of the Irish Times