Iker Casillas wants Cesc Fabregas to reproduce his stunning Arsenal form on the international stage to save Spain from missing out on Euro 2008.

Like England, Luis Aragones' side are in danger of elimination in the qualifiers if they lose in Denmark today.

But the Real Madrid keeper believes the young midfielder, who the Spanish champions again tried to recruit over the summer, holds the key to winning Group F - and making a challenge in the finals next summer.

"Cesc has become a star at Arsenal - he is someone who is maturing very quickly," Cassilas said.

Before he had other players around him like Thierry Henry who were bigger names than him but now he is the man who has to take the leadership role.

"He has got a great deal of talent and a bright future ahead of him. If he ever decided to come back to Spain, there would be a queue of clubs wanting to sign him. Now he also has to take the same responsibility with the national team and be the main man."

Despite the superstars in the two sides, England and Spain face crucial matches over the next week on the road to Austria and Switzerland.

And Casillas, who has insured his hands for £5m this season, reckons Euro 2008 will be the poorer if either fails to make it. "I do see similarities," said the Spanish skipper.

"The two teams have great players but struggle to get through for these championships.

"It would be a disaster for the tournament and for our professional careers if we don't make it.

"But once there, both of us would be among the favourites to win."