‘I want this Gavi’ – Spain boss defends Barcelona star from criticism after training tackle on Rodri

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has jumped to Gavi’s defence following criticism of the Barcelona midfielder after footage of a tackle on Rodri in training went viral.

Gavi appeared to stand on Rodri’s foot which left his team-mate in some pain. He was able to continue but that didn’t stop plenty of focus being aimed at Gavi on social media.

De la Fuente was quick to try and defuse the situation in a press conference on Sunday and said there is no problem at all.

“This is football, it’s training. The players give their all and nobody has to apologize,” he told reporters.

“Everything is fine. Gavi has energy, drive. He has to pace himself, but I want this Gavi.”

The Spain boss also spoke about his team’s next friendly and said there will be changes to the team.

“The idea is to give more playing time to those who didn’t participate against Iraq,” he added.

“I have the team in mind, but there will surely be changes. I have a plan for how to start the World Cup if there are no adverse circumstances. Football can always surprise you, but I won’t reveal the lineup for Wednesday.”

Lamine Yamal won’t feature as he continues his recovery from injury, but he is expected to be passed fit in time for Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde.