World Cup 2018: 3 changes to the starting line-up that will make Spain unstoppable

#2 Koke IN, Thiago Alcantara OUT

Koke is required in Spain's midfield to add more stability

It's clear to see that Spain lack protection in midfield. Hierro must realise that playing Andres Iniesta, David Silva, Isco and Thiago all together cannot function against better sides as they are all too creative-minded. He needs an engine within that quartet, Koke is the perfect option in that regard.

Koke only started their first group game against Portugal. Since then, a 20-minute cameo during the 1-0 win over Iran and an unused substitute against Morocco, the Atletico man needs to be utilised more in future.

Bayern's Thiago Alcantara got his first World Cup start against the east Africans last time out. Despite being a joy to watch from a creative sense, he's not the perfect partner for Sergio Busquets - which is why Koke must be recalled to the starting line-up.

He's a better fit in Spain's system, being able to read the game well whilst offering composure in possession from deep areas as well as defensive support and increased mobility, which is desperately needed. Busquets himself said earlier this week that Koke is his ideal partner and the fact that Spain are more prone to committing individual mistakes means he'd provide extra stability in the centre of midfield.