Spain coach Luis Aragones may have saved his job with Wednesday's 2-1 friendly win over Argentina.

Aragones said he had received assurances about his future from Spanish soccer federation president Angel Maria Villar.

``Whether I continue or not doesn't depend on me. But I speak to the president and he is sure. From what he has told me, I am sure too. I'm not leaving here. They will have to make me leave,'' Aragones was quoted by sports daily As on Thursday.

The veteran coach, who was whistled by the 32,000 crowd when his name was read out before Wednesday's inaugural game at La Condomina stadium, was under pressure after recent defeats in European championship qualifying against Northern Ireland and Sweden.

Reports had suggested that Aragones' 26-month tenure would end if Spain lost to the two-time World Cup champion, with Vicente del Bosque, Miguel Angel Lotina and Italian World Cup winning coach Marcelo Lippi touted as replacements.

Aragones said he didn't mind being attacked for his role in his team's recent slump.

``I accept criticism because it helps me to learn. But what I won't accept are insults. Anyone who insults me will be insulted back,'' he added.

``I have always said that the one which loses most through all this is the national team and then the players, because they are footballers who have the ability to shine. The least important thing is whether I lose my job.''

Yet leading sports daily Marca continued to be critical on Thursday, saying that Spain's win over Argentina was like ``putting on a Band-Aid.''