Euro 2016: Italy vs Spain - 5 players to watch out for

3) Sergio Ramos

Ramos would have to be at his best against Italy

Ramos has been Spain’s defensive lynchpin for over a decade. Having donned the captain’s armband recently, Spain will be banking on one of their most experienced outfield players to provide leadership to an at times shaky defence tonight.

Since making his debut in 2005, Ramos has gone on to make 132 appearances for Spain, scoring 10 goals in the process. The long-time Real Madrid servant has won everything worthy of note, on the international stage.

However, if there is one word that can adequately describe Ramos, it is hunger. A hunger to win come what may. Followers of European competition will remember how Real Madrid were down and out and the elusive La Decima or 10th Champions League title had almost slipped out of their grasp in 2014.

A last gasp equaliser from Ramos, in added time, forced the final into extra time where Real triumphed emphatically. Ramos is fast, has the ability to play out from the back, and is an adept tackler of the ball. Ramos will have a decisive role to play in quelling the speedy Italian counter-attacks tonight.