Fernando Hierro has accepted the responsibility of Spain's exit from the World Cup despite taking over as head coach just three days before the tournament commenced.

Hierro replaced Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked after taking up the role as Real Madrid manager. Spain were knocked out of at the round of 16 stage following Sunday's penalty shootout loss to Russia.

"I do accept responsibility. I'm the head coach," Hierro told reporters. "Three days ahead of the World Cup, I was put in the position and if anyone needs to shoulder the responsibility it is me. I have nothing against anybody. I put my reputation out there because its what my job required."

On whether he would take over the role on a permanent basis, Hierro added: "Honestly that doesn't worry me. It's not something important right now, now is the time for something else. Now we need to share this complex moment. We came with great ambition. We're talking about a generation of extraordinary players.

"This is the fruit of two years of work. Lopetegui's work. We went 23, 24 matches without having loss. but we didn't accept it how it is."