Gerard Pique has explained why he didn’t join up with the Spain squad for the last round of fixtures and reaffirmed his commitment to La Roja.
There was confusion during the last round of internationals as Vicente Del Bosque left Pique out of the squad to play France and Macedonia, saying publically that Pique had a hip injury.
However, Pique and Barcelona Coach Luis Enrique contradicted Del Bosque, with Pique playing against Villarreal shortly after the squad was named.
“It’s true I had hip problems and I let Del Bosque know about them,” the defender revealed to AS.
“In fact, I even had discomfort for this game, although I’m much better now. What happened was that Enrique, who knew about it too, considered I was needed to play for the team.
“I was being treated by doctors and was supposed to join the national team. That’s the truth of what happened.
“I’m glad to be asked this question so that I can explain. I’ve sacrificed for the national team and I plan to continue doing so.
“Del Bosque decided to give me rest and Enrique decided to make me play. My team needed me so I understood.
“On other occasions when the team has needed me I’ve played with pain or physical problems.
“My intention is to keep coming whenever the Federation call me, as I always have done.”
