Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino was delighted to make his playing return with Spain against Japan on the weekend.
Having recovered from a three month long back complaint, Merino featured in the 1-1 draw in a warm-up for the Tokyo Olympics.
Merino had been suffering from a stress fracture to his lower back.
He said, "I am very happy to be back in competition after such a long time.
"It has been a great test against Japan. It will be great for us to pick up the pace and fill us with energy for what is now about to start."
