Media Roundup: Spain Boss Opens Door for Villa Recall

The Playoffs are here and so it’s no surprise that NYCFC have hit the headlines all over the world as we prepare for our first-ever postseason game.

We kick-off our weekly media roundup with some interesting quotes from Spain Head Coach Julen Lopetegui who has seemingly opened the door for a shock international recall for David Villa.

The NYCFC striker has scored 23 goals in the MLS Regular Season and his form has not gone unnoticed.

“The truth is that I saw him very well and playing with a lot of intensity.' Lopetegui told Spanish publication Onda Cero.

“Villa continues to play at a very good level and in the future we will see if he can return.

“We don't close the door to any player and we always have consideration for players that can help the national team.

“Villa is well, playing with a lot of rhythm, scoring lots of goals and showing a great attitude.

“He is a player who has done priceless things for Spanish football.”

David is Spain’s record goalscorer, netting 59 goals in 97 appearances.

In other news, Christian Araos of EmpireOfSoccer.com has examined Villa's prospects of winning MLS MVP.

Araos writes: “Villa finished the season with six goals and two assists in New York City FC’s final four matches.

“His 23 goals were second-best in the league and the three wins were enough for City to secure the number two seed and their first ever playoff berth.

“Of the stars on the marquee, Villa has stepped forward to be the club’s leading ambassador as well, doing everything from cutting PSAs with Sesame Street to leading the club’s outreach to Mexico to filling for teammates who could not make autograph appearances.

“He didn’t have to. But he did.

“In short, he has done it all.”

Elsewhere, there's a terrific interview with Frank Lampard by English footballing legend Gary Lineker here, where Frank opens up about Patrick Vieira, his career after football and life in New York.

Well worth checking that one out in full!

In more Lampard news, Frank has called out his former Chelsea teammates Petr Cech, Ashey Cole, Didier Drogba and John Terry.

The NYCFC midfielder threw down the gauntlet for a round of golf in December on Instagram as he hit the driving range at the aptly-named Chelsea Piers.

Needless to say, we’re #TeamFrank

Finally, Andrea Pirlo is one of 23 players who have been given a “terrifying Scream Team” boost in FIFA Ultimate Team for Halloween.

Read more about this “Ultimate Scream” special here.