Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has been called up to the Spain national team for the first time following his impressive start to the season.

The 27-year-old will now join Julen Lopetegui’s squad for their World Cup qualifying matches against Italy and Albania after Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez was forced to withdraw from the team.

Herrera will also provide cover with Thiago Alcantara and Saul Niguez both struggling with slight injuries, according to the Manchester United website.

The former Athletic Bilbao midfielder has already been capped for the Spanish U20, U21, and U23 but has never played for the senior team yet and he has now been handed an opportunity to impress coach Lopetegui.

Meanwhile, United goalkeeper David De Gea has also been included in the Spain squad for the matches against Italy and Albania on Thursday and Sunday.