Cesc Fabregas have been snubbed by Julen Lopetegui for the World Cup in Russia, as the Spanish boss opted against inviting the Chelsea midfielder.

Fabregas might not be on the playing field for Spain, but he will play a part in the punditry side of the game.

The Chelsea midfielder, 31, has won more than 100 caps for Spain and helped them win the World Cup title in 2010, and he will be part of a group of international experts chosen to join the BBC’s punditry line-up in Russia.

He joins World Cup winner Jurgen Klinsmann, twice African player of the year Didier Drogba and 2014 World Cup finalist Pablo Zabaleta in a stellar line-up of international experts.

Fabregas will make his studio debut for Spain’s game with Portugal on 15 June.

“We are delighted to welcome Cesc as he joins our star-studded team of experts in Russia,” said Philip Bernie, head of TV Sport.

“He knows what it takes to lift the biggest prize in the sport, and we are greatly looking forward to the world-class football knowledge and insight he will add to our coverage.”