Hierro right man for Spain according to Iranian coach

The Spanish team were plunged in to turmoil after the sacking of their coach Julen Lopetegui just two days before their World Cup began, but Quieroz believes that Hierro is the right person to steady the ship.

The Portuguese went to the Bernabeu in 2003 as first-team coach, and fought to keep the man who he will now face in a World Cup.

"I really tried to keep him and have him as one of my players," Queiroz revealed to reporters.

Hierro was moved on despite Quieroz's protests, and the two men remain friends. Despite the rivalry ahead of the Group B game, the Iranian team's coach has been complimentary of his opposite number.

"I know him well and I know he is the right person to unite a team that could have been divided after what happened. We saw that in the Portugal game. They were very united."

The former Manchester United assistant manager believes that the match will be a test, but one that his team should relish.

"We want it to be difficult so we can learn. It's a win-win for us because whatever happens we know we will be better for the experience of playing against them."

Iran picked up a surprise win against Morocco last time out, and sat top of their group following the first round of matches. 

"There will be no excuses. We just play for the shirt. Our fundamental principal going into all games is to raise the football profile of Iran. And that will be the aim against Spain," Queiroz concluded.