Del Bosque omits trio for Copa clash

Vicente Del Bosque has left behind Raúl González, Roberto Carlos and Fernando Hierro for Wednesday's Copa del Rey meeting at Lanzarote.

Del Bosque caused a surprise with his squad selection, but explained that he would still be fielding a strong XI for the game, which is to be played on Lanzarote's artificial pitch.

"We must show respect for Lanzarote even if they are a Segunda B division outfit," he said.

"Let's not forget that we'll be playing on their artificial pitch and that's going to be a disadvantage for us."

Regarding the squad list Del Bosque continued: "I don't know whether it's a surprise, I'm only leaving Raúl, Hierro and Roberto Carlos behind in Madrid. We want to win the Copa this year and that's why I'll be taking a competitive team."

Real have a good incentive to go flat out for the Copa del Rey this year. The modest trophy will be lifted at Real's ground, the Santiago Bernabeu on March 6, the date of the club's 100th birthday and the Merengues are eager not to miss out on the celebrations.