Spain not distracted by favourites’ tag – Pique

Gerard Pique has insisted Spain’s status as Confederations Cup favourites will not distract them as they complete their preparations for the competition.

The reigning world and European champions will launch their campaign against Uruguay in Recife, Brazil, on Sunday, having been heavily tipped to add to their glittering array of trophies.

However, as manager Vicente Del Bosque put the finishing touches to his plans ahead of the friendly against Ireland in New York, defender Pique was taking nothing for granted.

He said: “We don’t think of ourselves as favourites or number one, but we know we have a good chance in the World Cup or Confederations Cup.

“We keep our feet on the ground, and it is a great feeling in the dressing room.”

Despite Pique’s modesty, Spain’s recent dominance of the international stage means they will be regarded as the team to beat.

Defender Alvaro Arbeloa knows that simply comes with the territory.

He said: “We know how tough it is to get to the top and maintain that.

“We know how much teams want to beat us, but we are very motivated to keep on winning – and especially in the Confederations Cup.”

Arbeloa’s comments came as talk of his differences with Real Madrid team-mate Iker Casillas over manager Jose Mourinho continued.

The full-back had earlier admitted he believed some of the players had let Mourinho down, while others were happy to lay the blame for the club’s failure last season at the feet of the Portuguese.

However, asked about the situation, Arbeloa said: “It is fine and it is good.

“We have a good relationship as Spanish players and we wear the same crest on our shirt.”

Spain beat Haiti 2-1 on Saturday and Del Bosque was expected to shuffle his pack ahead of a clash with Ireland this morning .

Pique said: “The game against Haiti was a good game to try some aspects, and we can continue to try to play different keepers and strikers to find the best team we can.

“Ireland are a good team with strikers like Robbie Keane, who has had a good international career, and we hope we can win it.”