Barcelona stiker David Villa has been ruled out of the 2012 European Championships for holders Spain due to a leg injury.
The Spanish frontman had injured his shinbone at the 2011 Club World Cup in Japan, but has failed to recover in time for the upcoming tournament in Poland and Ukraine, with the Spanish Football Federation confirming his absence on their website on Tuesday.
“David Villa cannot definitely be on the list for Euro 2012. Villa spoke with the national team doctor this afternoon after the arrival of the team in the Austrian town of Schruns,” the statement read.
“After not getting in the final practice and development desired, David Villa spoke with Del Bosque, who relayed that although it was Villa`s wish to be with the team in Poland and Ukraine, that his physical state was ‘not as good’ as would be desirable.”
Villa, who scored five goals at the 2010 World Cup, took to Twitter to express his disappointment at the situation but thanked the fans for their support.
“Thanks to all of you for your support. I will continue working to return to play as soon as possible with Barca and Spanish National Team,” he said.
Spain have been placed in Group C alongside Italy, Republic of Ireland and Croatia.