Spain star Pau Gasol is pessimistic about his chances of playing in this year's European Championships in Belgrade.

The Memphis Grizzlies forward has only recently returned to action after suffering problems with the underside of his foot, with surgery thought to have been the only option.

However, Gasol and his club have opted instead for a more lengthy period of rehabilitation in the treatment room.

That appears to have worked well, but although he is on the way back to a full recovery, Gasol thinks the problem could stop him playing for Spain this September.

"My foot is fine, it is practically recovered, but the injury has considerably reduced by chances of playing for the national team," he said.

"At the moment the question is up in the air and we will see what decision to take in the future," he told El Mundo Deportivo.

Gasol has another concern as the championships approach as the longer Memphis' NBA season lasts, the smaller his chances of representing his country become as participating in the end-of-season play-offs will leave him less time to rest.