Iker Casillas rues Carles Puyol absence

Spain captain Iker Casillas has admitted that Carlos Puyol's absence at Euro 2012 will be a "serious loss" for the holders.

It was revealed on Wednesday that the Barcelona defender will miss the tournament in Poland and the Ukraine with a knee injury.

"I agree with coach Vicente del Bosque that this is a serious loss, not only on the field, but also when it comes to the group," Casillas told reporters.

"He is one of the captains, together with Xavi [Hernandez] and myself."

The defending champions start their campaign against Italy on Sunday, June 10.