Cesc Fabregas is fit to play for Spain against Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Durban on Wednesday, but it may need a pain-killing injection to help him get there.
The Arsenal midfielder was examined by Spain's team doctor after falling heavily on his shoulder against Paraguay but he and defender Carles Puyol, who suffered blurred vision after being hit in the face by the ball, have both been given the all-clear.
Barcelona centre-half Puyol is certain to start alongside Gerard Pique in a rematch of the Euro 2008 final.
Fabregas has yet to start a match in the tournament, but Spain looked a much better side in the quarter-final after he came on to replace Fernando Torres, and 22-year-old is raring to go.
"It's painful but when you are up for it it's fine," he was quoted as saying in Monday's edition of Sport newspaper. "I am ready to get an injection in order to play," he added. "If (coach Vicente) Del Bosque needs me I'll be there."
Del Bosque is bound to call on Fabregas at some stage or another but there is a growing sense of expectation that it he may be used from the start, with Torres the one to make way.
The Liverpool striker has struggled to look anything like the striker he is at the tournament. Fabregas' inclusion would allow Del Bosque to match Germany in midfield, in terms of numbers, and put their most potent goal threat, David Villa, up front on his own.
Agencies