David Silva identifies problem Spain have as they prepare fo

Fernando Hierros side have struggled in Russia and face a further tough test when they take on the hosts in the last-16

David Silva has admitted Spain are struggling to find a way past teams who park the bus at the World Cup.

Fernando Hierros side have struggled in Russia and face a further tough test when they take on the hosts for a place in the quarter-finals.

Spain have been behind on four occasions in their three matches in Russia, twice to Portugal and twice to Morocco, against whom they needed a last-gasp goal to win the group.

Manchester City playmaker Silva admitted Spain have struggled against opponents who try to suppress their attacking threat, but said they must learn to find a way past them.

Some teams teams park the bus in front of the goal and its hard to handle that situation, said Silva. But we need to find solutions.

Were trying to correct our mistakes, but sometimes its hard to shine because of that approach of other teams.

Silva, 32, will earn his 125 cap for Spain and is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and effective playmakers in world football.

But the three-time Premier League winner has come in for criticism in Russia for perceived poor performances, but said he is used to it and takes it in his stride.

Despite scoring 35 times for Spain, Silva has yet to score in a World Cup, with all of his goals coming in the qualifying campaign or European Championships.

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I think a lot has been said about criticism, said Silva, who last international goal came back in November in a friendly against Costa Rica.

Were professionals and we need to focus on playing games to change peoples opinions.

This is the World Cup, there is always a rival ahead of us and most teams of the teams here are having a hard time.

Sometimes criticism isnt deserved, but I have been here with the national team for 12 years and Im used to the criticism.

Especially in first match and in part of the second, weve had good games.

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Fernando Hierro will hope his side sail safely through to the quarter-finals

But we need to minimise mistakes - if we hand goals to the opposition it will be difficult - the smallest mistakes here can mean you are going back home.

I dont give it that much thought. There is always criticism but we try to play our best. Now its our turn and sometimes someone has to shoulder the burden.

We had a very hard group and Russia will be just as difficult as if we had faced Brazil.

Despite their struggles in Russia, having sacked coach Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the tournament, Silva said Spain must stick to the principles that have brought them such success, including the 2010 World Cup and 2008 and 2012 Euros.

I think whats taken us to our different successes is ball possession, said Silva. But different matches require different things and we need to know that.

But I think our philosophy is the appropriate one and its the one that has taken us to so many victories.

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