Arteta still has Spanish dreams

The former Everton and Rangers star has been linked with a call-up to the England squad, with Arsene Wenger insisting he would walk into Fabio Capello's squad.

But as Arteta prepares to see his country in action against England at Wembley this weekend, he still wants to win his first cap.

"I just watch them play and say 'wow'," he told Arsenal's website.

"I think it's the best midfield the world has ever seen.

"You cannot find a selection of players to match Alonso, Iniesta, Fabregas, Silva, Busquets and Xavi - six of the top 20 players in the world going for three positions. So what can you do?

"I was very close a few times to having the chance to go, but for one reason or another it didn't happen.

"I'm going to keep fighting though, that's for sure - it's one of my targets and I won't stop going for it because I really want to represent my country.

"The level of the team is incredible though, so I know how hard it will be. The exposure of being at Arsenal will help, so now it's up to me - if I do really well here, then perhaps I have a chance."