Spain coach Luis Enrique explains shock call for Barcelona teen Gavi | OneFootball

Spain coach Luis Enrique has called up Barcelona teen Gavi for his latest World Cup qualifying squad.

Gavi only made his first team debut this season, but Enrique insists the teen deserves his chance.

“What I am looking for is to endorse what I have seen," he said. "I have known him for a long time because he was in the academy of Barcelona and is one of the leaders of it. There are players who get injured and although it is unfortunate I can see others.

"It is an opportunity for other players who can come. He still has to grow, but with and without the ball he contributes important things. It's very good to see him on the team, but I want to see him in person ".

Enrique, meanwhile, decided not to select Gavi's Barca teammate Ansu Fati after his return to full fitness.

“It is a great joy to see Ansu Fati where we all want to see him. I wanted to call Ansu Fati even if it was not to play, but you have to put the situation in context, where he comes from and how long he has been injured. The best thing is that he is calm in the club and that he continues playing minutes."