Pique on Pedro, squad and suspension

Gerard Pique has discussed Barcelona’s decision to sell Pedro Rodriguez to Chelsea, concerns over the team’s squad depth and his four-game ban.

Pique was sent off for allegedly directing an abusive phrase at the assistant referee during Barca’s 1-1 Supercopa de Espana second leg draw with Athletic Bilbao.

The defender was given a four game ban as a result but is fighting the decision, and offered praise to the officials.

“Referees won’t influence whether or not we win trophies this season. I trust 100% that they’re impartial,” he said, Marca reports.

“I’m fighting with the club and I hope my punishment is reduced. It’s difficult for me not to be able to help the team, but it is what it is. I try to train to the maximum for when I can play.”

Regarding the state of the Barca squad after Pedro left for Stamford Bridge, Pique dismissed suggestions the Catalans are spread too thin.

“Those who say we have no depth are just trying to find something negative to say,” he countered.

“I’ll leave [the decision to sell Pedro] to the sports management department. They know better than anyone if we need anyone.”

Pique concluded by touching on Real Madrid’s opening round draw with Sporting Gijon, and revealed who he would invite for a game of poker.

“What happened in Gijon is typical of the first League match. The first meeting usually take a lot out of you because you’re not in the best physical condition,” he acknowledged.

“Poker is a hobby like any other. It’s not like football, where results are required.

“There are a few who play at Barcelona and there were a lot at Manchester United. That’s where I started playing.

“If I could choose who to pick for a game, it’d be Sir Alex Ferguson, Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown, John O’Shea and Neymar.”

Tags Chelsea Gerard Pique Pedro Rodriguez
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