Madrid, March 7 (IANS): Brazil-born Diego Costa looks certain to be included in Spain's squad for the forthcoming World Cup finals in Brazil despite a disappointing international debut.

Spain's 1-0 win against Italy may have been played Wednesday night in the Vicente Calderon Stadium where Costa earns his corn week in week out with Atletico Madrid, but at times he looked a stranger to his teammates in the Spain shirt, reports Xinhua.

Despite working hard, he failed to score and at times was on the periphery of the game which Spain dominated and should have won by more than a single goal from Barcelona's Pedro Rodriguez.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has always said that nobody has their place in Brazil guaranteed, but speaking in the early hours Thursday morning he gave Costa a vote of confidence.

"Diego will bit by bit incorporate himself in the play of the team. I think he is comfortable and it seems he did well for it being his first game. When he relaxes I am certain that he will give us a lot," said Del Bosque.

Given that the next squad Del Bosque names is the preliminary squad of 30, from which the final 23 for Brazil will be chosen, it seems certain in the light of those words that Costa will be on the plane.

Costa meanwhile said he was happy with his debut and referred to the reception he has received from the other members of the Spain squad and the Brazil born forward was pleased with the way he had fitted in.

"I will remember the affection of the fans and the good reception my companions gave me. I didn't expect it," he said.

Defending champions Spain will kick off their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands, while the Italians start theirs against England.