Barcelona defender Gerard Pique reportedly asked for more focus from Philippe Coutinho during the Spanish club's final training session ahead of Saturday's La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano.

Coutinho - a 2018 arrival from Liverpool - has struggled for consistency during the 2018-19 campaign.

The Brazilian has contributed eight goals and five assists in all competitions, but has struck just four times in La Liga, where his performances have largely disappointed.

According to Marca, during Friday's training session Coutinho failed to reach a pass during a drill, which led to teammate Pique shouting: "Come on Phil, you're not plugged in."

Coutinho is widely expected to start the clash with Rayo on the bench as Ousmane Dembele prepares to join Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi in the final third of the field once again.

Ernesto Valverde's side are currently seven points clear of second-placed Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga, while they are 12 ahead of third-placed Real Madrid.