MOSCOW, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Gerard Pique was forced to abandon Spain's training session on Monday as Julen Lopetegui's side prepared for their World Cup opener on June 15th.
The FC Barcelona defender, who has 98 caps for his country, landed badly after a challenge with striker Diego Costa and complained of a pain in his left knee, which forced him to leave the training pitch.
Spanish online newspaper 'Marca' reported shortly afterwards that Pique's injury was not serous and would not affect his presence against Portugal, where he is expected to partner with Sergio Ramos in the heart of the defense.
The Spanish are still without Real Madrid right back Dani Carvajal, who damaged his hamstring in the Champions League final 16 days ago.
Carvajal, who missed the 2016 European Championships due to injury, won't be fit for the World Cup opener and is still in doubt for their second group match against Iran in Kazan on July 20th.
That doubt has seen Lopetegui bring defender Jesus Vallejo and central midfielder Rodrigo Fernandez to Russia to provide cover, and he will be able to make changes to his 23-man squad until 24 hours before the game against Portugal kicks off at 8pm local time on Friday.?
