Fabregas pulls out of Spain squad with ankle injury

The Barcelona midfielder will not feature in la Roja's upcoming friendly after hobbling off during the Catalans' 3-1 win over Malaysia on Sunday

Cesc Fabregas has pulled out of Spain's friendly with Ecuador after sustaining a sprained right ankle.

The Barcelona midfielder hobbled out of action in the 82nd minute of the Catalans' 3-1 win over Malaysia on Saturday, having scored the opener and set up further goals for Neymar and Gerard Pique.

The 26-year-old was assessed by doctors on Sunday after arriving back in Spain, with the Liga giants subsequently confirming that he will not feature for la Roja in their upcoming clash.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Cesc Fabregas had a number of tests this morning after arriving back from Malaysia to measure the extent of the ankle injury he picked up in Saturday’s match.

"It has subsequently been confirmed that the player has sprained a ligament in his right ankle.

"Club doctors have contacted the Spanish FA to recommend that the player should not join the national squad for the friendly against Ecuador so that he can undergo treatment in Barcelona."

The news comes as a blow to new boss Gerardo Martino, a week before the start of the Liga campaign.

Fabregas - who has been the subject of interest from Manchester United throughout the close season - made 32 league appearances last season, scoring 11 times.

He now faces a race against time to be fit for the season opener, as Barca begin their title defence against Levante next Sunday.