Mendieta - set for a first-team recall (Allsport)

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Gaizka Mendieta is hoping to take his chance to impress when Spain face South Africa in their final Group B match on Wednesday.

The former Valencia player was one of the first names down on Jose Antonio Camacho's team sheet a year ago, but a move to Lazio followed by a disastrous loss of form means he has yet to make his debut in this summer's World Cup finals.

Now, with Spain already qualified for the last 16, Mendieta will get his chance as Camacho gives fringe players a game.

"I think I will play against South Africa, or at least that's how it looks after training," he said.

"It's important because that way you feel you are participating in the World Cup," he said, vowing to give his all.

"I am clear that I want to try and change my current situation, I have one game to try and convince Camacho.

"I'll start with this game and then the coach will have to decide for the next one, but I'll be working to make sure I don't drop out of the first 11," he said.

Mendieta has not complained about being left out against either Slovenia and Paraguay.

"I came to this World Cup after having played very little for Lazio, so I didn't think I would be first choice, but of course I still have reasons to be happy," he said.

"I'm here at the World Cup and that's a good motive to feel pleased, I knew it would be hard to get into the team, but with effort I hope to fulfil my aims."

Spain looked convincing as they swept past Slovenia and Paraguay in their opening games to become the first side to claim a last 16 place, but Mendieta insists the spirit Camacho has installed in the side, means they will look to do the same against the South Africans.

"Camacho always wants to win and he works specifically to avoid us relaxing. It is very important for us to beat South Africa because that way you win the respect of your rivals, also it motivates the group and makes everyone in the side feel important," he said.