Pedro Rodriguez insists he is not sorry for earlier remarks that he would find it difficult to keep representing Spain if he was not playing.
Pedro also claimed in his interview with #0 on Monday that he was struggling to acclimatise to life as a substitute for Spain, having started neither of La Roja’s group games at Euro 2016, and while he was prepared to apologise for those who were offended by his comments, the Chelsea winger had no regrets.
“I’m not [sorry for what I said]. I spoke to [Vicente] del Bosque. I don’t know what my continuity in the team will be, but I’m grateful to be here,” he said at a Press conference.
“I’ve been here for six years and it wasn’t an attack on the Coach. I take responsibility for this matter, and if I have to apologise to the fans then I will.
“I spoke to my colleagues and they understand, but the most important thing is the team. I thank Vicente because without him I wouldn’t have won the World Cup or European Championship.
“If anyone was upset [by what I said] then I apologise, but I don’t think it was that bad.
“I have my expectations [of playing], like the others, and I’d rather be on the pitch, but I’m one of the 23 and I’ll continue to fight, whether I play one minute or none.
“I just expressed my personal situation [to my teammates]. They all understand because everyone’s been through it, especially the great players.
“I’ll keep looking for my opportunities. Everyone’s taken it well, and if I have to talk to the captains again then I will. Everyone wants to play, nothing more than that.
“I’m grateful to be here with my colleagues. I’m aware that I’ll be criticised, but I didn’t say I didn’t want to be in the squad or that it was uncomfortable.”
