Sergio Ramos: 'Gerard Pique deserves call-up'

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has insisted that Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique deserved to be called up to the latest Spain squad.

Pique has struggled with injury in the early stages of the 2014-15 season, while a dip in form has seen him lose his spot in the Barcelona defence.

The defender is in the latest Spain squad, but that has been met by criticism from some quarters.

"I don't think it's right that there's any controversy being created. Pique has been with the national team for years and he's always done very well," Inside Spanish Football quotes Ramos as saying.

Spain face Slovakia on Thursday before clashing with Luxembourg on Sunday.