Villa ruled out of World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein

Jack Ottman 7 years ago 2.6k
David Villa returned to the Spain squad for the first time since the 2014 World Cup. EFE

Spain's all-time record goalscorer David Villa earned his first call-up to the national side in three years during this round of World Cup Qualifying matches but he has been ruled out of Tuesday's game due to an injury.

The 35-year-old striker featured for Spain as he came off the bench during their 3-0 win over Italy on Saturday but he suffered an abductor injury in training.

The Spanish football federation said: "Having picked up a strain in Sunday's training session, it was decided he would leave the squad."

Villa, who is currently plying his trade at New York City, has scored 59 goals in 98 appearances for his country, but Juan Lopetegui will be without the veteran striker on his side's trip to Liechtenstein on Tuesday.

Spain currently lead Group G with 19 points, three ahead of second-placed Italy, who they beat emphatically on Saturday.

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