Spain vs Italy Also spoke about his own Spain future

As Spain prepare to face Italy on Saturday night, one of the main talking points concerns Gerard Pique and whether or not the Barcelona defender will be the subject of boos at Real Madrid's Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, where the match is being held.

Several players have already called for those attending to be respectful and Sergio Ramos has been among them.

The captain of La Roja even praised his Clasico rival's attitude in the pre-match press conference.

"Pique has been an exemplary player for the Spanish national team," Ramos said when asked about the centre-back.

"Whistles don't help anybody."

Looking ahead to the prospect of battling Italy for top spot in the group, the Andalusian made it clear that he was aware of the significance of this blockbuster battle.

"What we're concerned about is that there's a place at the World Cup at stake and, above all, it's at a grand stadium like the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu," he said.

"This is one of the best fixtures you could watch.

"I am sure the supporters will be our greatest ally.

"They will help us."

He was also asked if the 2018 World Cup might be his last with Spain, although there was a reluctance to make any major predictions.

"I think about things day by day," he told reporters.

"I am not thinking that this will be my last World Cup, quite the opposite.

"As long as I am motivated and happy, I'll think about playing [for Spain]."

Finally, Ramos spoke about the man of the moment, Marco Asensio, who has been called up to Julen Lopetegui's squad and he said he hopes the youngster will remain focused and grounded.