Del Bosque recalls Mata as Xavi, Torres miss out

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque announced a weakened squad for next Wednesday's friendly against Panama as the world and European champions make the trip without key stars Xavi, Xabi Alonso and Fernando Torres.

Del Bosque did recall Chelsea playmaker Juan Mata who has been in sparkling club form and was overlooked for the recent 2014 World Cup qualifiers when Spain won 4-0 in Belarus before being held 1-1 by France.

Mata was English Premier League player of the month in October and has been rewarded with a recall although the former Valencia man played at Euro 2012 where his only appearance was a late cameo during the 4-0 win over Italy in the final.

Athletic Bilbao midfielder Markel Susaeta and right-back Martin Montoya of Barcelona were called up for the first time while Manchester City star David Silva and Barcelona defender Gerard Pique stay behind with injuries.

Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Victor Valdes (Barcelona)

Defenders: Martin Montoya, Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos, Raul Albiol (Real Madrid), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich/GER), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid).

Midfielders: Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Markel Susaeta (Athletic Bilbao), Benat (Real Betis), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal/ENG).

Strikers: David Villa, Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona) Juan Mata (Chelsea/ENG), Roberto Soldado (Valencia), Jesus Navas (Sevilla).

AFP