Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has insisted that he does not have a problem with Atletico Madrid forward and potential Spain teammate Diego Costa.
The two had a few heated exchanges in Sunday's 2-2 draw at the Vicente Calderon in what was another ill-tempered affair.
Costa is expected to make his Spain debut against Italy on Wednesday and Ramos has played down suggestions that there is an issue between the pair.
"I think Costa is a great choice and can bring many things," Ramos told AS.
"There's no problem. It's part of our sport, we defend our interests. Football is to unite, not separate. We're teammates now and we need other treatment.
"We know [Atletico Madrid] have a strong character and heart and that's part of their style. [Madrid's] is to control the ball more. They defend their thing and we defend ours."
Costa has scored 27 goals for Atletico this season.