Sergio Ramos: It feels like we're in a funeral parlour when the World Cup is starting Spain The captain called for more optimism

The sacking of Julen Lopetegui has thrown Spain into crisis, but Sergio Ramos is keen to see the positives and to remain upbeat.

He made this clear in a press conference on Thursday, comparing the doom and gloom to a funeral parlour.

"It feels like we're in a funeral parlour when the World Cup is starting," he said towards the end of the questioning.

"I want to finish with a smile.

"We have to turn the page because this hasn't been pleasant.

"Julen [Lopetegui] has been part of what's been done, but Spain is above everything.

"We need to turn the page and there's nobody better for filling the void than [Fernando] Hierro.

"I hope we can have a national team like we had before.

"We don't need to evaluate what other people do and we need to focus on the sporting side of things.

"Only we can do something on the pitch.

"We need to close this subject.

"When the World Cup finishes, everyone can say what they want."

Asked how he felt being the captain of the team, Ramos explained that he is proud of the role.

"Wearing the armband of the national team is the best thing that can happen to you," he said.

"Everything that has happened will make us more united.

"Nothing will change us.

"The will of a country won't come above one name.

"There is no rift in the dressing room.

"The plan hasn't changed, with the plan being to go and win the World Cup.

"Personally, it was a delicate moment.

"Being here is very difficult and we'll be more united than ever."

Looking to the Portugal match, he was asked how he'll feel coming up against Cristiano Ronaldo.

"I prefer to have him with me and not against me," he said.

"He is really great and a constant threat."

The match will kick off at 20:00 CET on Friday night.