Tottenham manager Ramos salutes Spain's man of the moment Aragones
Tottenham boss Juande Ramos has hailed fellow Spaniard Luis Aragones for leading his country to the brink of glory at Euro 2008.
Russia stand between Spain and a place in Sunday's final after Aragones' side held their nerve to beat Italy on penalties in the last eight.
Ramos told Spanish newspaper Marca: 'The experience of Luis Aragones has been a key factor in getting us this far. Previously we fell in the group stage, even though the team was competitive, or we went out on penalties or fell short because of some mistake.
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National pride: Ramos is raving about Aragones' achievements
'But by defeating Italy the team have taken a giant step forward.'
Ramos said the credit should be shared by many, but 'given that Luis had been heavily criticised in Spain's worst moments, it was only fair now to recognise his courage and he was equally responsible for the team's success'.
The White Hart Lane chief reckons the desire shown by the Spain players against the Italians will stand them in good stead for their clash with Guus Hiddink's Russia.
'It's going to be difficult, but the psychological advantage of having laid the jinx of the quarter-finals is very important for us,' he said.
'Everyone knows how well Spain can play and Russia too will be riding on a wave of euphoria. Whoever best controls the rhythm of the game will have the best chance of reaching the final.'
