C riticism of the defender's jersey alteration in the 2-0 win over Albania has prompted him to confirm his international retirement after the Russia tournament Spain defender Gerard Pique has revealed that he will retire from international football following the 2018 World Cup after growing "tired" of criticism. The centre-back has long been a contentious figure in the Spain ranks due to his public backing of Catalan independence, as well as his part in perceived past squabbling between Barcelona and Real Madrid players.

Costa and Spain still struggling

Pique also came under fire from the press during Sunday's 2-0 win over Albania, with some claiming he had cut the regulation short-sleeved jersey in order to remove the trim on the shirts that bears the design of the Spanish flag. However, the 29-year-old produced proof after the match that he had in fact cut the sleeves of a shirt that did not have the same flag design, and he says the accusations have pushed him too far.

"I've tried everything but I cannot take any more," he said in a statement released by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).