Fernando Torres left out of Spain squad for WC qualifiers

Torres, who scored the winner against Steaua Bucharest to reach the Europa League quarter-finals on Thursday, has been ignored by Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque for being inconsistent.

"Torres had been a regular until recently, his inconsistency worries us," Del Bosque said.

Spain's strike force will be led by Barcelona's attacking dup David Villa and Pedro Rodriguez while Sevilla pair Alvaro Negredo and Jesus Navas made the 24-man squad.

Barcelona skipper Carles Puyol will also miss the double header due to injury. Puyol captained the side while winning his 100th cap in the friendly win over Uruguay last month.

Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas is out injured with Manchester United's David de Gea called up for the senior squad, but faces stiff competition from Liverpool's Pepe Reina and Barcelona's Victor Valdes.

Torres' Chelsea team-mate Cesar Azpilicueta and Malaga midfielder Isco have been retained after making the squad against Uruguay. Swansea's Michu was left out while Manchester City's defensive midfielder Javi Garcia has been recalled.

Torres has made 101 appearances for Spain scoring 31 goals since making his debut in 2003. Torres also scored the winner in the EURO 2008 finals against Germany.

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