Former Albion striker Michael Robinson has not ruled out another Spanish success in the World Cup.

The holders, who have also won the last two European Championships, kick off their defence in Salvador de Bahia tonight as they face Holland.

Robinson, who has forged a successful media career in Spain over more than 20 years, is working in Brazil for TDN, a sports channel based in Central America.

He told his mainly Mexican audience: “Lots of people are asking me, because I was born in England, who I’m supporting – England or Spain?

“But I was only born in the UK. I hope Spain win after so many years living there and respecting their way of playing football so highly.

“Not many people make Spain favourites which is strange given they are the holders.

“But I think that works in favour of La Roja and Vicente Del Bosque.

“People see the hosts Brazil as the main favourites, maybe Germany.

Michael Robinson courts controversy at Leeds as an Albion player

“But I think Spain have something in their favour and that is they know exactly what they are doing.

“They have a Plan A and a Plan B, one without a centre forward and one with a centre forward.

“I think Spain can defend their title with dignity.

“Will they win again? I don’t know.

“But I hope they defend their title with lots of dignity.

“I don’t rule out the possibility that they could repeat their triumph of four years ago. At least, I hope they do.”