Reina: Adam is the key
Pepe Reina has warned Spain to beware the threat of Charlie Adam - but insists there will be no old pals act when they lock horns with Scotland on Tuesday night.
The Reds stopper admits the strong tartan presence at Melwood means he would love to see Craig Levein's side finish as runners-up in Group I.
However, he remains adamant that the world champions will be doing all they can to ensure they conclude the campaign with a 100 per cent record.
Reina said: "I spoke to Kenny and Charlie just before I left but we just congratulated each other on the victory over Everton.
"We didn't speak too much about the international game. I'm sure they will want me to tell the players to go easy on Scotland but they know that won't happen.
"The target is not to lose a single point in the group so even a draw wouldn't be good for us.
"We have to be professional. Once Spain's job is done then I would want Scotland to get second place but that would mean the Czechs have to lose to Lithuania. And that's possible.
"Scotland and the Czech Republic are similar. Nowadays there isn't much between international sides. Scotland were so unlucky not to beat them at Hampden which is why they're left with a tough challenge.
"My preference would be for the Scots to go through because of Charlie, the manager, Steve Clarke and young Danny Wilson.
"Charlie will be crucial to Scotland in Alicante - he is one of the best players in their team.
"If they want to do something big then he holds the key."
Adam first appeared on Reina's radar during an impressive first Barclays Premier League campaign with Blackpool.
The 'keeper studied the threat the playmaker poses from set pieces and feels he will go on to be a valuable asset for Liverpool this term.
He said: "It's a case of so far, so good for Charlie at Liverpool. The team is improving all the time and Charlie is also getting better.
"I probably analysed him more than most before he signed because I knew how dangerous he is at free-kicks.
"He also has great deliveries. Charlie is a great player to have in the squad and he can become very important for us.
"Playing for Liverpool isn't easy but Charlie is prepared for it. He has been at Rangers and has Champions League experience.
"He was also Blackpool captain and that means he can handle responsibility."