Puyol ruled out of Euro 2012

Spain have been dealt a blow ahead of Euro 2012 with news that Barcelona’s Carles Puyol will miss the tournament with a knee injury.

Puyol, 34, played 90 minutes in Barcelona’s win over Espanyol at the weekend but complained of knee soreness.

Further tests on Monday revealed the central defender requires an operation.

“After tests were conducted it was decided the player would have arthroscopic surgery on Saturday,” Barcelona said in a statement.

“The estimated time he will be out of action is around six weeks.”

Puyol was a key member of Spain’s winning sides at Euro 2008 and the World Cup two years ago.

He will also miss Barcelona’s final league fixture against Real Betis and the Copa del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao.

Spain face Italy in their Euro 2012 opening group game in Gdansk on June 10.