Barcelona striker David Villa has confirmed that he will not be taking part in the Euro 2012 after failing to recover from the tibia fracture he suffered back in December. Villa is recognised as one of the best strikers for Spain. In the past, he has formed a devastating partnership with Chelsea striker Fernando Torres. However, Fernando Torres is currently out of form, while the loss of David Villa will be even more crucial for Spain at the Euro 2012. Spain manager Vicente del Bosque was initially hoping to get Villa into the squad in the final moment, but the Barcelona striker has now confirmed his nonparticipation in the tournament due to injury.
This is the second major blow for Spain after they recently had Barcelona defender Carlos Puyol ruled out due to injury. However, due to the fact that Spain have a number of options when it comes to defence, they are likely to miss Carlos Puyol. It will be in the striker department that they will certainly feel the pinch of not having David Villa. Spain will be coming into the tournament as the defending champions, but their favourites tag has slightly been reduced following the injuries to key players.
“I tried right to the end but I wasn’t able to get to 100 per cent for the Euros. Today I called the coach to tell him. It was the most honest thing to do. Thanks to all of you for your support,” said David Villa on his Twitter account. “The RFEF and Spain’s coaching staff wish the player all the best in his recovery and hope he will return soon to the national team, and value the effort made by David to get back to full fitness,” read a statement on the official website of the Spanish Football Federation.