Valencia's Paco Alcacer is taking nothing for granted following his rapid rise for Spain, but believes Vicente del Bosque's side can win Euro 2016.
Alcacer, 22, had scored four goals in six international appearances since making his debut with La Roja a year ago in a friendly against France.
The forward is Spain's leading scorer alongside David Silva in qualifying with three goals apiece, but is determined to keep up his fine form to ensure his place in Del Bosque's squad.
"My numbers are very good but I have to continue on this path in order to keep my place in the squad," Alcacer said in an interview with Marca.
"I really didn't expect it. Last year I was waiting for the squad list for the under-21 team only to be called up by the senior side.
"I think I'm taking advantage of this opportunity as this train only comes once."
Spain are hoping to defend their European Championship title in France next year and bounce back from their disappointing World Cup in Brazil, which saw them crash out in the group stages.
Alcacer has big aspirations with the national team, saying: "I dream of scoring my first goal at Euro 2016. That is a great dream.
"After the setback in Brazil, we are really looking forward to play in another major tournament. Why should we not win it? We have a quality side."
The forward scored 11 goals and set up five more in 32 league appearances for Valencia in the 2014-15 campaign.
He was rewarded earlier this year with a contract extension which will keep him at the Mestalla stadium until June 2020.
Alcacer feels his best is yet to come, saying: "I work every week in order to improve. If you don't understand that you need to improve then you will take a step backwards.
"I am a person that wants to grow as a footballer and in life. It's good to know what your strengths and weaknesses are in order to improve.
"I need to improve on many things but I'm 22 and I've only just started as they say. I'm learning a lot from playing alongside Alvaro Negredo [at Valencia]. Together we make each other stronger and that is good for the team."
Alcacer believes his eye for goal comes naturally, adding: "You are born with it but you need to perfect it. I believe I'm good in the area and I sense where the ball is going to fall and that is a gift a striker can have.
"Scoring a goal gives you a sense of freedom, the same feeling you get when you win a game. If I don't find the back of the net I am not satisfied even when we win."
Spain are on course to qualify for next year's tournament as they sit second in Group C, three points adrift of leaders Slovakia.
La Roja take on Slovakia on Saturday in Oviedo before playing away to Macedonia three days later.
