Barcelona's Thiago in Spain squad to play Italy

Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara's recent good form has earned him a surprise call-up into Spain's squad for the friendly at Italy next week.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque included the 20-year-old in his 22-man squad for the European and World Cup champion's game in Bari on Wednesday.

Thiago helped Spain win the Under-21 European Championship in June, and has scored four goals in five preseason friendlies for Barcelona.

There were few other surprises. Eight Barcelona players made the squad, including regulars Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Gerard Pique. Carles Puyol remains sidelined by injury.

Five Real Madrid players were included, and three from Basque club Athletic Bilbao were selected.