Spain boss Vicente del Bosque has said that he would prefer to see Manchester United goalkeeper Victor Valdes play more frequently.

The former Barcelona man joined United on a Bosman in January, but is yet to make a senior appearance due to David de Gea's stellar form.

At 33, Del Bosque feels that it is important that Valdes, who has not played a senior game for any team in over a year, stay sharp as he bids to dislodge De Gea.

"I know that he is training. I try to look whether he is in the United's bench and I can see that he is currently a substitute," he told Spanish radio station Cadena Cope.

"I wish him to play because he has always had a sensational behaviour with Spain. I would like him to enjoy his job [rather than being on the bench] because at his age it is important to be active."

Valdes signed for the Red Devils on an 18-month contract after leaving Barcelona.