Sergio Ramos says Spain are starting to believe in themselves again after edging closer to World Cup qualification following Tuesday’s 8-0 win over Lichtenstein.

La Roja suffered no issues in Vaduz, with both Iago Aspas and Alvaro Morata grabbing braces in a convincing victory, to move three points clear at the top of Group G and on course to book their place in Russia.

Spain have been a team in transition over the last few years as having dominated global football on their way to winning the Euros in both 2008 and 2012, as well as the 2010 World Cup, they have floundered at major tournaments in the recent past.

Ramos is one of those who still remains from their golden era and as captain he is trying to ensure the new faces in the team gel in time for next summer.

Spain are 8.50 to win the 2018 World Cup, with Germany and France the joint 6.50 favourites while Brazil are 7.00.

The Real Madrid defender admits confidence is high within the group and feels Julen Lopetegui’s men are heading in the right direction to claim a second world title.

He said: “We have a very talented team. Young and old are needed, and we have a mix of both. “We feel convinced and excited again. We’re taking the right steps.

I’d be lying to you if I told you that I didn’t see this team doing something great.

“Compared with La Roja’s previous generation? We’ll see if we can do the same as them.

We really enjoyed the previous generation and repeating them will be difficult, but it can be done.”