Spain's Yamal says 'too early' to play full World Cup match

Spain star Lamine Yamal said on Friday that it is 'too soon' for him to play a full match as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury ahead of the European champions' World Cup game against Saudi Arabia.

'It's very early, it's unnecessary,' the 18-year-old told Spanish public broadcaster RTVE. 'It's not the time to play a whole match, but I can play whatever minutes the coach wants.'

Luis de la Fuente's men were held to a surprising goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde in their Group H opener and will hope to get back on track on Sunday against the Saudis. On Thursday, coach De la Fuente told Radio Cope that Yamal would be able to play 'an hour' this weekend in Atlanta.

On Monday, Barcelona winger Yamal made his first appearance since suffering the injury in mid-April, coming on as a 71st-minute substitute against Cape Verde. He could not inspire his teammates to a win against a stubborn Cape Verde side.

However, his Barcelona teammate Pau Cabarsi backed him to deliver at the tournament. 'We already know Lamine's qualities,' Cabarsi said Friday. 'Whether he comes on or not, he'll help us as much as possible – but I think whoever plays in his place will do just as well.'

Spain were pre-tournament title favourites, but they have not advanced past the last 16 at a World Cup since lifting the trophy for the first time in 2010.