David Villa hopes for Spain recall

Two years since winning his last cap, David Villa admitted he would return to the Spanish national team in a heartbeat if he was called to duty.

Now, with the arrival of new manager Julen Lopetegui, Villa may have a chance to revive his international career despite falling out of favour under Vicente del Bosque when he joined New York City FC of Major League Soccer in 2014.

"I'm enjoying the national team from a distance," Villa told Spanish radio Cadena Ser, as translated by ESPNFC. "I would take the first flight back to play in the national team.

"I always say that I'm open to play with that national team. It was a dream to play with Spain and it will always be a dream. If the coach ever thinks I can contribute, I'll be delighted to do so. I know it's complicated. Spain has great strikers and there are many that have also been left out."

Villa last represented La Furia Roja during the 2014 World Cup, when the emotional striker had to be consoled by teammates when he was substituted out of a match against Australia.

While he's often asked about the stigma of joining MLS, and the consequences that come with playing in an inferior league compared to La Liga - where he made a name for himself at Sporting Gijon, Zaragoza, Valencia, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid - the 34-year-old insists that he doesn't regret making the switch over to NYCFC.

"All my life I had played my sporting career in Spain and although Atletico wanted me to stay I was attracted to this offer," he said. "It was the right decision to leave and I don't regret it whatsoever."

With two matches remaining, Villa is currently tied for the scoring lead with 21 goals through 31 games.