Ferran Torres has withdrawn from the Spain squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. The Paris Saint-Germain forward has left the camp due to persistent discomfort in his left ankle.
His place will be taken by Real Madrid youngster Carlos Espí, who earns his first senior call-up.
Torres's withdrawal
The Spanish federation released a statement detailing the issue. "The Paris Saint-Germain player has been 'experiencing discomfort in his left ankle,'" it said. It added that "initially, this didn't prevent him from training and playing, but due to the persistence of the symptoms, the decision was made to withdraw him from the squad to prioritize his recovery."
Torres started the 3-2 win over England last Saturday, being substituted in the 55th minute. He was then an unused substitute in the 4-1 victory over Croatia on Tuesday, a result that extends Spain's winning run to five matches. His most recent goal, and one of the most significant of his career, was the winner in the World Cup final against Argentina back in July.
Espí's chance
Torres's injury opens the door for Carlos Espí. The 21-year-old forward signed for Real Madrid from Levante this summer and has started the season brightly, scoring twice in his first four LaLiga appearances.
Espí was already training with the Spain under-21 side, where he showed his finishing by netting five goals in the 13-0 rout of San Marino in Euro qualifying last Thursday. He now steps up to Luis de la Fuente's senior group, which looks to maintain its unbeaten start in the Nations League.
Espí's call-up was confirmed on Friday morning.
The original report is at ESPN Soccer
