Villa was ruled of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Belarus and Georgia after suffering an ankle injury in Atletico Madrid's victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has now turned to Michu, a player who has demonstrated consistently strong form in the Premier League since joining Swansea ahead of the 2012-13 season.

The 27-year-old scored 21 goals in his first season with Michael Laudrup's side and already has five in all competitions this term.

Prior to his switch to the Liberty Stadium, Michu represented Celta Vigo and Rayo Vallecano in his homeland.

Spain currently top Group I in UEFA qualifying and can guarantee their place at next year's World Cup by winning both of their remaining matches.