European champions Spain have one of the most complete sides in world football, but a spate of injuries to key players is disrupting their World Cup preparations.

Liverpool forward Fernando Torres, Arsenal playmaker Cesc Fabregas and Barcelona's creative midfielder Andres Iniesta all missed the tail end of their respective league seasons due to injury, leaving coach Vicente del Bosque with a major headache.

The trio were pivotal for Spain in their Euro 2008 success and del Bosque is sweating on their fitness ahead of the 2010 South Africa showpiece.

The 26-year-old Torres, who scored the winner in the 1-0 Euro 2008 final win over Germany, had to have a knee operation to repair cartilage torn in a Europa League match against Benfica on April 8 and has not played since.

Torres has been plagued by injuries over the past few seasons and faces a battle to be fit for Spain's opening Group H match against Switzerland on June 16.

"It's been a hard year due to injuries, and it's a massive shame that I haven't been able to play more matches," said Torres.

"Now all I have left to look forward to is to try to be fit for South Africa.

"I have been waiting four years for this and, if all goes well, I do not anticipate missing it."

Arsenal captain Fabregas, 23, is another player on the sidelines having suffered a fracture in his right leg during his side's Champions League quarter-final against Barcelona.

Fabregas, 23, suffered the broken leg taking a penalty and missed the remainder of the season, although he is confident of making the World Cup.

"On May 24, I will join up with the Spanish national team and should be able to join in a bit when we play Saudi Arabia five days later," said Fabregas.

"Now I just have to be patient, making sure I come back as strongly as I can.

"The timing is looking good for the World Cup."

Iniesta, 25, is another star performer on the treatment table after tearing a muscle in his right leg.

The Barca midfielder has not played since April 10 and is fighting against the clock to be match fit for the World Cup.

"This is one of my most difficult moments, but life has taught me not to give up," said Iniesta.

The Spanish media has voiced its concern at the three injuries and the latest concern is experienced Barcelona midfielder Xavi.

The 30-year-old Xavi, a crucial player for Spain and voted best player at Euro 2008, has played with a calf injury during the title run-in to help Barcelona.

Spain had a clean bill of health when they surged to European championship glory under Luis Aragones, however, his successor del Bosque has many more problems, knowing that even if the players get back fit they will lack match sharpness having not played competitive matches.

Fortunately Spain's group of Switzerland, Honduras and Chile looks manageable although they will need star performers such as Torres, Fabregas, Xavi and Iniesta for the last 16 when they could face Brazil or Portugal.

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