INIESTA BLOW FOR SPANISH

Iniesta blow for Spaniards

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta is almost certain to miss the Confederations Cup after undergoing new medical tests.

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta is almost certain to miss the Confederations Cup after undergoing new medical tests today.

It had been touch and go whether Iniesta would make the tournament after he was injured before the Champions League final.

The 25-year-old played in that match and, although he did further damage to his right leg, he still joined up with the rest of the Spain squad yesterday.

However, he underwent an hour of tests this morning and now faces up to two months on the sidelines.

"He has an injury which has a very high chance of suffering a relapse," said Spain doctor Oscar Celada. "And we have to look out for Andres' health and not expose him to a relapse.

"The recovery period is long, between six and eight weeks. He is crushed to see that the injury is worse than what he could have thought at the beginning."

Iniesta admitted as he left the hospital: "It looks very bad."

It will be a big blow for coach Vicente del Bosque as Iniesta, who has had a stunning campaign and helped propel Barca to the treble, is a key member of the team.

The Confederations Cup kicks off on June 14.

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Del Bosque has called up Pablo Hernandez as Iniesta's replacement and the Valencia midfielder could be set to win his first cap.

The 24-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Getafe, has not represented La Roja at youth or reserve level.


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