Chelsea duo left out of Spain side to face Italy

Neither Fernando Torres or Juan Mata have been included in Spain’s starting line-up to play Italy in their opening match of Euro 2012.

The current holders have elected to play without a recognised striker, while as expected, David Silva is preferred to Mata.

It is thought Cesc fabregas will play furthest forward, but the news of Torres’ omission will come as a surprise for the striker, who was expected to be named in the stating XI in the absence of David Villa who misses the tournament through injury.

Spain: Casillas; Arbeloa, Pique,Ramos, Jordi Alba; Busquets, Alonso, Xavi; Silva, Iniesta, Fabregas.

Italy: Buffon, Bonucci, De Rossi, Chiellini, Maggio, Motta, Pirlo, Marchisio, Giaccherini, Cassano, Balotelli.