Barcelona star Lamine Yamal confirms hamstring injury 'improvement' for Spain

The Barcelona teenager posted videos on Instagram showing himself back on the training pitch and working with the ball as he continues his rehabilitation programme. The update has increased optimism that the winger will be available for Spain during the tournament next month.

Yamal was included in Luis de la Fuente's World Cup squad despite concerns over his fitness, and Spain remain hopeful he will recover in time for the opening stages of the competition.

Spain begin their campaign against Cape Verde on June 15 before facing Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in their remaining group matches.

De la Fuente has already expressed confidence that Yamal will be fit for Spain's first fixture, although reports in Spain have suggested the youngster could instead make his return against Uruguay later in the group stage.

The 18-year-old has become one of Spain's key attacking players after another impressive season with Barcelona, where his pace, creativity and confidence have continued to attract attention across Europe.

Yamal is one of eight Barcelona players selected in Spain's squad alongside Pau Cubarsi, Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres.

Spain's coaching staff will now closely monitor Yamal's progress over the coming days as they prepare for the start of the tournament, with the winger expected to play an important role if fully fit.