As Spain prepare to face Luxembourg in UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying tie, manager Vicente del Bosque has stated that it is best to focus on the football rather than the booing that FC Barcelona defender Gerard Pique is subjected to.
Pique has been booed unceremoniously in Spain’s last game following his taunt aimed at Real Madrid after the title win in 2014-15 season with FC Barcelona.
Del Bosque and other Spanish national team players had criticized the reaction of the crowd in the last game towards the Spain defender, urging them to be supportive towards the side.
Del Bosque does not want to talk about Pique booing
Speaking ahead of the Luxembourg game, the Spanish manager was quoted as saying by Inside Spanish Football . :
a Ita s best to act normally, focus on playing. We cana t influence it but I think [the campaign against the whistles] will be a benefit.
a [The fans in Logrono] have been asked to support the team.a
Casillas mental state not an issue for Del Bosque
Spain captain Iker Casillas has gone through some turbulent times of late, losing his form as well as not being in the best frame of mind. However, the goalkeeper is in solid state, again, as per Del Bosque.
a Hea s fine, as always. He was a happy kid and hea s not changed. He looks like hea s on the same line as ever,a the Spain manager added.
a In the difficult moments, when anyone would be bothered, they wouldna t have been happy times but hea s always been fine.a
Laporte was approached by Spain
Athletic Bilbao defender Ayemeric Laporte confirmed it was a possibility that he could switch allegiance from France to Spain after having initially rejected an approach from La Roja.
Confirming the approach, Del Bosque was quoted as saying by Inside Spanish Football:
a There was a little contact but he opted for France. Hea s an excellent player.”