Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has defended playing Sunday’s match against Las Palmas behind closed doors, describing it as “one of the most difficult decisions I’ve made”.

Barca won 3-0 at an empty Nou Camp after a request to have the game postponed, amid widespread political unrest in Catalonia, was turned down.

Barcelona could have faced a six-point penalty had they chosen not to play.

On Tuesday Barcelona players and staff will join a strike across Catalonia.

Players and staff at the region’s two other La Liga clubs, Espanyol and Girona, will also take part in the general strike, which will not affect any games because it is taking place during the international break.