体坛英语新闻：Martinez makes case for Spain's WC qualifier defense

MADRID, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- Spain's defender Javi Martinez said Tuesday that he would have no problems dropping back to partner Sergio Ramos in the heart of the Spanish back four for the forthcoming World Cup qualifying matches.

Martinez, who joined Bayern Munich from Athletic Club Bilbao over the summer, was recalled by coach, Vicente del Bosque for the reigning champions' trip to play Belarus in Minsk this Friday and then the vital game at home to France next Tuesday.

Although Martinez spent most of last season as a central defender, his move to Bayern has seen him step back into his role as a midfielder.

"At first it was hard for me to adapt to play in defense, but I adapted with games," said Martinez. "I don't know plans the coach has for me, but it wouldn't be hard for me to go back into defense, " he added.

Martinez also discussed his experiences after slightly over a month playing in Germany.

"I have been lucky to go to a big club where everything is very different -- the city, the language, the people and the club. I have been pleasantly surprised how people have received me as it gives you confidence. I hope the best is yet to come," he said.

Bayern recently defeated BATE Borisov in the Champions League and given that the Belarus side contains nine members of the BATE side, he was asked about his experiences against players who will line up against Spain.

"They are a side that looks to play on the break. Physically they are strong and they concede many chances," he explained.

Martinez is now a companion of French international Frank Ribery at Bayern and although Spain defeated France 2-0 in the European Championships in the summer, he believes they will be the side to beat.

"They have the basis of the side from last year with young players who are all very promising. I speak a lot to Frank (Ribery) and he has said that they have a great team and they are going to make us sweat," he added.