Saul: This summer I thought a lot about not playing in the World Cup Spain He is now keen to move on

After scoring for Spain in their 2-1 win over England at Wembley, Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez admits to having thought long and hard about his lack of playing time at this summer's World Cup.

Under Fernando Hierro, he didn't play a single minute in Russia.

"It is not the time to talk about the past," he said when asked about the tournament.

"I thought about it a lot in the summer, but I don't think we need to talk about that anymore because it doesn't matter.

"I lived an unforgettable experience and I contributed what I could.

"In the European Championship I was left out and I realised that if I do well in my team then things will come."

Looking ahead to Croatia, the Atleti star is expecting a big challenge in midfield.

"We all know [Ivan] Rakitic and [Luka] Modric," he said.

"They have a great midfield and they will be a difficult opponent to beat."

Having been tipped by many as a key player under Luis Enrique, he was quick to play down his role.

"I'm not fundamental for the national team, but I feel important at Atletico.

"Everything I do is for the good of the team.

"The national team does not depend on me."

The match against Croatia will be very special for Saul, as it'll take place in Elche, where he is from.