Alonso says players ‘heard the criticism’

MADRID – Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is certain Spain changed a few minds with the manner of their stunning UEFA EURO 2012 triumph over Italy on Sunday.The build-up had been dominated by allegations that the reigning world and European champions had turned into a boring team. Coach Vicente del Bosque insisted the negative comments played no part in motivating his team to produce arguably their best performance since EURO 2008. However, Alonso confirmed the opinions were heard inside the Spain dressing room, and following a record 4-0 win in the finals, said he thinks a revision is required.“We heard the criticism and we saw what was written,” said the 30-year-old Alonso. “That happens. Now they will have a different opinion.”With a FIFA World Cup sandwiched between two European Championships, Spain have become the first side to lift three major tournaments in a row. For that reason alone there can be no challenge to any claim of greatness. Yet there is still much to achieve.The feeling persists that Spain have the capability of improving still further and rivalling the Brazil team of 1970 as what is generally regarded as the best international side of all time.In Brazil, two years from now, Spain could create more history by becoming the first European team to win the FIFA World Cup in South America. However, for Alonso, such thoughts are for another day.

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Alonso says players ‘heard the criticism’