Spanish right-back Dani Carvajal has started full training with the Spanish national squad ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia. The Real Madrid full back's place in the Spain squad was thrown into dark clouds after he limped off in tears during the UEFA Champions League final in late May.
The 26-year-old avoided a hamstring tear and has now returned to full first-team training. But, he is unlikely to start in Spain's World Cup opener against Portugal on Friday.
Real Sociedad full-back Alvaro Odriozola will likely replace Carvajal, who co-incidentally suffered an injury during the 2016 Champions League final, that ruled him out of the Euro 2016.
The Real Madrid full-back is seen as a integrate member of the squad and the one who is expected to play every game, fitness permitting. His injury against Liverpool made him a doubt for FIFA's flagship tournament, but now he is expected to play a vital role in Spain's campaign after working on his treatment with the physios.
After missing the European Championships in 2016, the Los Blancos full-back was desperate to play this time rather than watching his team play from the stands or TV. Although it is still unclear whther he will be ready to start against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal on Friday.