BARCELONA, Spain (AP) Ever since that unexpected loss at the start of last year's World Cup, there has been a growing feeling in Spain that it's time for David de Gea to take over as national team goalkeeper.
The 24-year-old De Gea's series of superb saves in Monday's 1-0 win over Ukraine has added some extra zeal to the argument, with many hoping he will replace long-time captain Iker Casillas immediately.
''Should Manchester United's goalkeeper be a backup to Porto's?'' the ABC newspaper asked Tuesday.
Casillas, now 34 and with 164 appearances for the national team, has been captain since 2006 and led Spain to three major titles in a row at the 2008 European Championship, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.