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An upset Rafael Nadal - Source: Reuters -
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World number three Rafael Nadal has been included in Spain's squad for their Davis Cup World Group semi-final against Israel next week despite problems with an apparent stomach injury at the US Open.
Nadal, who has just returned from a two-month layoff with tendinitis in both knees, was in obvious discomfort against fellow Spaniard Nicolas Almagro on Monday but rallied after treatment to pull through 7-5 6-4 6-4 and clinch a place in the fourth round.
David Ferrer, Tommy Robredo and Feliciano Lopez make up the defending champions' team for the three-day tie against Israel in Murcia, starting on September 18, coach Francis Roig said at a news conference in Seville.
Spain have won all three of their previous meetings with Israel and are firm favourites to triumph on the home clay and set up a final against either Croatia or Czech Republic.
Spain have won their last 16 home ties and last 18 ties on clay and are bidding for a seventh Davis Cup final place, while Israel are competing in their first semi-final after upsetting Sweden and Russia in the previous rounds.
Nadal could be replaced by former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero, who plays Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina in the fourth round of the US Open later on Wednesday, if he is forced to withdraw.
