Pérez, Rossi & Zapata in action

For whatever the reasons, the current Villarreal roster features only three full internationals. Hernán Pérez (Paraguay), Giuseppe Rossi (Italy), and Cristián Zapata (Colombia) are on duty, while the rest of the squad trains in Vila-real. Rossi will start tonight in Belgrade, according to manager Cesare Prandelli.

Also worthy of mention: Diego Mariño was with the Spanish U-21 side for its Euro 2013 qualifier yesterday against Croatia. And Jefferson Montero (Ecuador), on loan at Real Betis, has rekindled the interest of manager Reinaldo Rueda. A good sign. We may see him in action on Tuesday against the United States.

The schedule for our internationals (all times Eastern):

Friday, October 7: Serbia v. Italy (2:45 pm), Peru v. Paraguay (9:15 pm)

Tuesday, October 11: Italy v. Northern Ireland (2:45 pm), Bolivia v. Colombia (4 pm), Paraguay v. Uruguay (6:45 pm)

Consider this an open thread for your thoughts on the qualifiers. Boys, do us proud.