Aragones recalls Torres

Fernando Torres has been recalled to the Spain squad by coach Luis Aragones for Wednesday's friendly international against England at Old Trafford but former captain Raul has been overlooked once again.

Torres, who had been a fixture in Aragones's squads, was dropped for November's 1-0 friendly defeat to Romania after a poor start to the season with his club Atletico Madrid.

However, the 22-year-old's form has picked up and he has contributed seven goals to help Atletico climb to fifth in the Primera Liga, six points off leaders Barcelona.

There was no room either for Joaquin or Jose Antonio Reyes. A number of players who missed the last match through injury return, including midfielders David Albelda and Xavi, and centre-back Pablo Ibanez.

The friendly will mark the 21st meeting between the teams. The most recent one, in the Bernabeu in November 2004, was marred by racist abuse directed at England's black players.