Pique rubbishes defensive rift rumours

Spain defender Gerard Pique has laughed off rumours that he is not on speaking terms with national team-mate Sergio Ramos.

Several reports ahead of Euro 2012 suggested that the relationship between the duo had turned sour following the heated encounters between Pique’s Barcelona and Ramos’ Real Madrid since Jose Mourinho arrived in the Spanish capital, but Pique said they would not be able to form a solid defensive partnership if they had problems.

“It’s true that we miss (the injured Carles) Puyol, but Sergio is a player with a great deal of quality. With every game we are improving as a partnership,” Pique told reporters.

“There has been a lot of talk about problems that don’t exist.

“We have a great relationship on the pitch. If we did not get on with each other, we would not be able to operate in the way we’re doing.”

Pique and Sergio Ramos will have to be on their guard on Wednesday when Spain go up against Portugal in their Euro 2012 semi-final.