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Gerard Pique handball: Fabregas and Ferdinand MOCK star over Spain penalty controversy
GERARD PIQUE was guilty of giving away a penalty during Spain’s clash with Russia today - and even two of his best friends could not defend him.
Spain took the lead in the World Cup last-16 clash, with Sergei Ignashevich putting into his own net.
But just before half time the hosts were level, with Artem Dzyuba confidently slotting home a penalty.
Pique was adjudged by Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers to have handled the ball in the box.
The Barcelona man was clearly unhappy with the decision, as BBC Sport presenter Gary Lineker pointed out when analysing the incident.
“Pique was obviously trying to make the point he was doing it while jumping, and you have to lift your arms up when you jump,” Lineker said.
He’s lying there. He’s trying to fool the referee
But one of Pique’s closest friends Cesc Fabregas, who was working as a pundit, could not defend his mate.
“Yeah, listen he’s one of my best friends, but I cannot defend him this time,” Fabregas jested.
And former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, who briefly played alongside Pique at Old Trafford, claimed the centre-back was trying to fool the referee.
“He’s a mate, but he’s lying,” Ferdinand said.
Gerard Pique shows off skills as he trains with Barcelona
“He’s lying there. He’s trying to fool the referee.”
Former England striker Alan Shearer also agreed with the referee's decision.
“I think it’s handball yeah," Shearer said.
"I think he knows what he’s doing. Once he loses the ball in the air, I think he puts his arm up deliberately to try and stop it.
"It’s a crazy thing to do. The referee is absolutely correct."