By Phil Minshull
Real Madrid's Raul Gonzalez gave another convincing demonstration of why many Spaniards believe he should be recalled to the national side in the Spanish giants' 3-1 win over Lazio on Tuesday.
The Real captain, as described by the Spanish sports daily Marca on Wednesday: "scored one goal, had another disallowed, and also hit the post with a header. He had a great first half and, in the second, he showed his class."
Despite their 3-2 loss at Werder Bremen two weeks ago, Real Madrid remain among the favourites to win this season's Champions League, partly thanks to Raul's efforts.
Raul himself knew after the game that the case is starting to become compelling for him to be recalled by Spanish coach Luis Aragones ahead of Euro 2008, especially with the falling form and injuries of Valencia's David Villa.
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"I've still got dreams about the European Championships and I'm still working hard towards it," said Raul, after helping to secure Real's place among the first seeds in the Champions League last 16 draw on December 21.
"I'm looking ahead to Euro 2008 but so are also some other players who are doing well. I really don't know what lies ahead in the coming year but, day-to-day, things could hardly be better at the moment," he added.
The 30-year-old striker has eight goals in La Liga this season, only behind the tally of 10 notched up by Sevilla's Brazilian striker Luis Fabiano, and he has been a key factor in Real once again leading the league.
Raul has also another three goals in the Champions League and he leads the all-time scorers in the competition.
His goal on Tuesday against the Italians was the 59th of his career in Europe's top club show case.
With Spain having lined up high-profile friendly fixtures at home against France and Italy early next year, if Raul can keep finding the net and avoid injury, the stage seems to be set for him to add to his 102 caps.
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