Fernando Hierro has given his backing to Guti's return to the Spain squad before Euro 2008, but admits that he cannot influence Luis Aragonés' decision.
The former Real Madrid defender is now the sporting director for the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and works with the national team coach.
Guti is unlikely to regain his place after Aragonés said that he believes he has stronger players, but Hierro does not agree there are many that are better.
" Guti and Raúl are friends of mine, just like Morientes and many other players," he explained.
"But everyone know the appreciation I have of Raúl and I have always said that Guti is one of the best five players I have seen."
"That is not new and I cannot change my idea, but in the end it is not my decision."
"When the coach does choose his final squad though, I hope that we all help the players he has chosen."
Reflecting on the situation at Valencia, where David Albelda, Miguel Ángel Angulo and Santi Cañizares have been frozen out, Hierro revealed that they have the support of the RFEF.
"We feel for all of them and as much for Albelda as for Angulo as they are hard working and are going through a difficult time," he said.
"Albelda knows that he has all our support and he has spoken to the coach and myself and we have told we are with him.