It has been claimed that La Roja are on the wane but the Manchester United shot-stopper said Vicente del Bosque's men are as strong as ever

David de Gea says Spain remain 'the best in the world' and is confident that they will prove as much in Brazil this summer.

Although Vicente del Bosque's men lost last year's Confederations Cup final 3-0 to Brazil, Vicente del Bosque's team remain the No.1 ranked side in international football.

Spain have not relinquished the top spot since winning the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa and De Gea believes they are right where they deserve to be

"It's been a long and hard season for many of the national team players but they are the best in the world and hopefully we can win the title," the Manchester United shot-stopper told reporters on Monday.

"I'm happy to be here. In the Under-21s I played good football for several years, trying to play the same game as the best and with some very good players."

A season-ending injury for Barcelona's Victor Valdes in March opened the door for De Gea to be picked for the World Cup.

The 23-year-old was selected in Del Bosque's provisional squad alongside Real Madrid's Iker Casillas and Pepe Reina of Napoli, meaning the three goalkeepers are all set to make the trip to Brazil.

Valdes tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee while playing for Barcelona in March and, despite the injury leading to De Gea gaining a spot in the squad, he expressed sympathy for his international team-mate.

"I haven't spoken to him [Valdes] but the injury is a shame," De Gea added. "I send him a hug and wish him a speedy recovery."