Sergi Roberto talks up full-back role for Spain

Sergi Roberto jostles with David Zurutuza during the La Liga game between Real Sociedad and Barcelona on April 9, 2016
© AFP
Sergi Roberto reveals that Spain boss Julen Lopetegui will consider the 24-year-old as a full-back after taking on that role with Barcelona.

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.

Sergi Roberto jostles with David Zurutuza during the La Liga game between Real Sociedad and Barcelona on April 9, 2016
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2Barcelona22007256
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4Sevilla21106424
5Deportivo La CorunaDeportivo21102114
6Sporting GijonSporting Gijon21102114
7Leganes21101014
8Real Sociedad311134-14
9EibarEibar21012203
10Malaga20203302
11AlavesAlaves20201102
12Atletico MadridAtletico20201102
13Villarreal20201102
14Espanyol302179-22
15Osasuna201113-21
16Granada201126-41
17Real Betis201126-41
18Athletic Bilbao200213-20
19Celta Vigo200213-20
20Valencia200225-30