Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets says teammate Gerard Pique must be prepared for boos in their World Cup Qualifier against Albania on Friday, but insists the whole squad has been affected by the recent events surrounding the illegal Catalonia independence referendum.
Pique has been the centre of attention following Sunday's events in Catalonia. The Barcelona defender broke down in tears after his team's behind closed doors win over Las Palmas on Sunday, declaring 'I am Catalan and I feel Catalan'.
Spain captain Sergio Ramos has criticised Pique for his social media activity, but both defenders have claimed there is no rift between the two and they are both ready to line up alongside each other for the qualifier against Albania.
Now, Busquets has had his say on how to handle the delicate situation. He recently said, 'I only focus on playing football and I'm sure it'd be better if everyone else did the same.'
'I'm sure there will be people that boo Pique, this has been happening for a long time,' Busquets added.
'The booing affects us all, it's not nice, we're all on the pitch, it doesn't just affect Pique and we don't deserve it.'
Spain, who are guaranteed a top-two finish, will qualify for next summer's tournament if they beat Albania and Italy drop points against Macedonia.