Barcelona Said Sunday was his worst football experience

The fact that Gerard Pique supported the controversial referendum on Catalan independence sparked a lot of debate in Spain in the run-up to Sunday's voting and the defender has said that he would be willing to stand down from international duty if he is too problematic.

Speaking in the aftermath of Sunday's victory over Las Palmas, Pique had his say on his backing of the referendum and the subsequent fall-out.

"If any directors or if the Spanish FA believe that I could be a problem or annoy the national team then I am willing to step aside," the defender - who already intends to retire from international football after the 2018 World Cup - said.

He also addressed the day's events, which saw instances of violence and which led to the doors of the Camp Nou being closed.

"I am proud of the Catalan people," he said through tears.

"This has been my worst experience."

Finally, Pique also criticised Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy.