The Spanish playmaker was born in San Sebastian, but has never played for Spain's senior squad, having only made 12 appearances for the Under-21s and his native country's youth sides. The world champions have a wealth of central midfield talent, including Barcelona duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta as well as Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, which has left the 28-year-old out of contention. The prospect of Arteta playing for England has often been mooted, but could become a reality this year as he qualifies as a British resident. After spending five years in England since joining Everton from Real Sociedad in 2005, Arteta admitted that he would consider playing for the national side. "Of course I would consider it," he replied when asked about the prospect of playing for Capello's men. "But to be honest I don't have the chance to consider it because it is not something that is there. "I knew a few people have been talking about it, but I don't want to say anything yet as I don't want to talk about something that isn't there at the moment. "If one day that opportunity comes then I will have to consider it."
