Spain defender Sergio Ramos says as far as he is concerned there are no friendlies involving the Spanish national side.
Ramos was speaking to assembled journalists at Spain’s Las Rozas training headquarters before Saturday’s friendly clash with Saudi Arabia in Pontevedra, and he insisted the current World and European champions have a reputation to defend.
“There are no friendlies with Spain. We take our inspiration and enthusiasm from defending these colours,” declared a defiant Ramos.
Although he is not 100 per cent physically fit, the Real Madrid man believes it will not be a problem as La Roja tune up for the more important World Cup qualifier away to Georgia on Tuesday.
“I am physically well. We have had time to switch off [since Euro 2012] and afterwards we had pre-season. The pace of things will increase gradually but personally I am feeling much better.”
Manchester City’s David Silva is another who will need to step things up after he joined the La Roja squad late.
“I’m actually feeling very well and I’ll have to pick up the pace, but I am already 100 per cent,” said Silva, who is looking forward to returning to play in Galicia again.
“I remember my time with Celta fondly. The people treated me very well and I have some wonderful memories.”
