Barcelona defender Gerard Pique believes that his teammate Carles Puyol should have been given the Prince of Asturias award.

The centre-back does not agree with the decision to honour only Spain internationals Xavi and Iker Casillas with the prestigious title.

"I sincerely cannot understand why Puyol is not collecting the Prince of Asturias prize with Iker and Xavi," Puyol wrote on his official Twitter page.

"Just like Xavi and Iker, Puyol represents all these years of success that the national side has had. They were the first players who started this generation.

"Many congratulations to Iker and Xavi! You deserve it! I'm very proud to be your teammate."

Pique plays with Puyol and Xavi for Barcelona and Spain, and with Casillas for the Spanish national team.