Ramos: Isco staying at Real Madrid is great news

Ahead of Thursday's friendly against Belgium, Sergio Ramos showed his satisfaction at his club teammate Isco staying put at Real Madrid, while also emphasing what the Spanish national team must do to retake its place at the pinnacle of international football.

Spain will face Liechtenstein on Monday in a World Cup 2018 qualifier, new coach Julen Lopetegui's first official match in charge, and the central defender believes the squad is well prepared for the challenge.

"Isco staying at Real Madrid is great news and makes me happy," Ramos said. " We all know what type of player he is, what he is capable of, and he brings a lot to the team."

Retaking the initiative and dominating games is something Ramos hopes the side can continue to work on under Lopetegui's stewardship.

"Our main objective is to retake the initiative during matches and to remain focused."