Casillas contacted Luis Enrique to stake claim for Spain return

The former Spain captain, who was not included in the squad announced on Thursday, told the new boss he would accept whatever role he was given.

Iker Casillas contacted Luis Enrique a few days ago to make plain his availability for Spain duty, telling the new national coach that he would be delighted to return to the fold and would accept whatever role he was given.

Casillas has not featured in squad since Euro 2016

The World Cup winner is Spain's record appearance-maker with 167 caps, but has not been included in La Roja's squad since Euro 2016. However, he has been in fine form for current club FC Porto, playing a decisive role in Wednesday's 1-0 Champions League win over Galatasaray.

The Spain boss took on board Casillas' message and made it clear to the 37-year-old that his merits would be given as much consideration as anyone on his list of around 70 footballers with the potential to be handed a call-up - but offered the Real Madrid legend no guarantees.

No place for Porto keeper in squad for Wales, England clashes

Despite his call to his former international team-mate - the pair featured together at both Euro 2000 and World Cup 2002 - there was to be no place for Casillas in the squad for the October fixtures against Wales and England, which was announced on Thursday.