Gerard Piqué and Sergio Busquets booed by Barça fans for refusing to take pay cut

Both came on as substitutes in the win against Villarreal

Gerard Piqué and Sergio Busquets were both booed by Barcelona fans for refusing to take a pay cut in their win against Villarreal on Thursday. The pair - who have been criticised for their performances this season - were singled out by the Barça fans in their 3-0 win as they came onto the pitch. Those in attendance at the Camp Nou also jeered their names after the line-up was read out and according to Sport the club are considering allowing the duo to leave in order to help with the club's financial irregularities. But Barcelona boss Xavi came out in defence of Piqué and said he can't understand why supporters would want to get on his backs. He said: "I called for unity. It’s time to be together. All I can say is that in the dressing room he is an example. And he’s a great captain. People need to know that. "I don’t know why they whistle and I don’t care either… What matters to me is that Piqué is with us in the dressing room and he always does the best for the group. Today the reaction was required and the team reacted wonderfully. I’m happy to be Piqué’s coach. Despite the club's issues off the pitch, they remain adamant to re-sign Lionel Messi and have reportedly devised a plan to ensure that the club legend can return to see out his career. Barcelona take on Athletic Bilbao this weekend before a crucial Champions League fixture against Bayern Munich next week. Related links:

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