Spain have been given a double fitness boost ahead of their semi-final clash with Germany (2/1 outright World Cup winners) with the news Cesc Fabregas and Carlos Puyol will be fit to play.
Arsenal skipper Fabregas took a heavy fall on his shoulder during Saturday’s 1-0 quarter-final victory over Paraguay.
However, after undergoing an examination by Spain’s team doctor, the 23-year-old will be fit to take his place in the squad.
Fabregas has yet to start a match at the World Cup so far, despite the likes of Andres Iniesta and Xavi having not sparkled in South Africa thus far.
However, having come on for Fernando Torres on Saturday and helped changed the game Spain (8/5 to beat Germany) coach Vicente del Bosque is thought to be considering giving him his first start.
Torres has yet to score at the World Cup and has looked along way short of his best as he struggles to overcome the injuries which ruined his domestic season.
Despite the 26-year-old stating he feels he can improve, Del Bosque has admitted he is considering whether to stick with the Liverpool striker.
“He remains a reference for us,” Del Bosque said. “To be on a (scoreless) streak or not, he offers hard work and personality and he’ll be our striker.
“Saying that doesn’t mean he’s an untouchable starter, but we have full confidence in him.”
Should Del Bosque decide to drop Torres it could be Fabregas who comes in to take his place and the Arsenal midfielder admits he is ready should he be called upon.
“It’s painful but when you are up for it it’s fine,” Fabregas told Sport. “I am ready to get an injection in order to play.
“If (coach Vicente) Del Bosque needs me I’ll be there.”
Fabregas could join Puyol in the starting line-up, after the Barcelona defender overcame a problem with his vision.
Centre-back Puyol was hit in the face against Paraguay and suffered blurred vision. However, he has now recovered and should join Gerard Pique at the heart of Spain’s defence for the last-four encounter on Wednesday.
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