Juanfran: Spain need to be united

Juanfran has spoken of an improved atmosphere around the Spain squad and applauded efforts to rally behind Gerard Pique.

Pique was the subject of whistles the last time La Roja played at home and, in response and ahead of the game against Luxembourg at Logrono, a social media campaign has been launched to encourage a positive reception for the Barcelona defender.

“He looks the same as always. I think he likes the initiative to applaud him and we do too,” Juanfran told Onda Cero’s Al Primer Toque, Marca reports.

“We want to beat Luxembourg and for that we need to be united. Aside from your colours, be they Blanco [Real Madrid], Rojiblanco [Atletico Madrid] or Cule [Barcelona], we have to support the national team at all times.”

Juanfran accepts however that there is great demand from the supporters on the Spain side, and believes it is actually a positive.

“[The demand] is still very high. If we draw or things aren’t done well, the criticisms arrive and people aren’t happy,” he acknowledged.

“We’ve earned the right to have that demand and I think it’s a good thing.

“Lately we’re all looking forward to coming to the national team because there is a very good atmosphere. Things have been better recently. The team has been stronger.”

The Atletico full-back is in contention for a Euro 2016 place, competing with the likes of Dani Carvajal and Cesar Azpilicueta, and spoke of his chances of going to France next year.

“If I’m at Euro 2016, either as a starter or a substitute, what I’ll like is being with the team and defending the team and Spain,” he added.

“If we win and I’m a starter I’ll feel as proud as I did when I didn’t play and Alvaro Arbeloa played the whole time.

“The Coach isn’t going to have a problem with me because I will always give more than 100% whether I’m a starter or a substitute.”

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