Pique is committed to Spain, says Viera

Gerard Pique is committed to Spain and should not be doubted, international team-mate Jonathan Viera said.

Pique was jeered by fans during a training session, with the Barcelona defender criticised for his support of the Catalan independence referendum.

"Everybody has their thoughts and freedom of opinion. If he thinks that way, we just have to respect it," the Las Palmas attacker said.

"If he's here with us it's because he is committed to the national team.

"He's been coming for years and doing things right so we shouldn't cast doubt on him."

The 27-year-old said he was thrilled to be given the opportunity, one he never expected.

"The truth is that I wasn't expecting it, I'm very happy and excited to be here, I will give it all and learn a lot," Viera said.

"I've been called this morning and I was already in Madrid by chance. I'm very happy and excited to be here."

Spain are on the verge of securing their place at the 2018 World Cup, sitting three points clear atop Group G with two matches remaining.