MADRID, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams has been forced to withdraw from the Spain squad for the UEFA Nations League matches against the Czech Republic in Oviedo on Saturday and away to Croatia in Split next Tuesday due to a muscle injury.
"Nico Williams has withdrawn from the Spanish national team squad. The Athletic Club international reported discomfort in his left thigh following the match played against Croatia in Seville," the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said in a statement.
Williams had felt "discomfort" during Tuesday's 4-1 win over Croatia in Seville, where he scored Spain's fourth goal.
"Following medical tests conducted today by the Spanish Federation's medical staff, it was decided that he would leave the current training camp to continue his recovery process."
"Athletic Club's medical staff have been kept informed throughout regarding the player's progress; he will continue his treatment and recovery under the supervision of his club," concludes the communique.
Williams is the fourth player to leave Luis de la Fuente's 26-man squad during the international break, following Pedro Porro, Eric Garcia and Alex Grimaldo, but on this occasion the coach will not call up a replacement.
The injury also makes Williams a doubt for Athletic Bilbao's forthcoming La Liga matches, with the club traveling to face Rayo Vallecano on Oct. 10 before visiting Valencia on Oct. 17 and Levante four days later. ■
