Alvaro Morata is Spain's skipper who has a goal tally putting him in territory of bona-fide national legends - so why he is he unloved by his country's fans, asks MATT BARLOW

A decade in Spanish red could be nearing a curious conclusion for Alvaro Morata.

Jeered by his own fans during a friendly against Brazil in Madrid four months ago, he started Euro 2024 by declaring he would probably leave La Liga to ply his trade in a country where he felt appreciated.

His children were unable to understand why so many people were so angry with their father, and there was speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia.

On the eve of Tuesday’s semi-final against France, Spain’s captain told El Mundo that this tournament was ‘likely’ to mark the end of his international career.

He really is a man with angst in his pants, making a mockery of the English version of the same debate: whether they are better off with or without record-scorer Harry Kane leading the line.

For it to end with Morata thrusting the Henri Delaunay trophy into the Berlin sky after winning his 80th international cap might be apt. Although Spain boss Luis de la Fuente is not about to let him walk away freely.

‘We always want him to be there,’ said De la Fuente. ‘He is the best captain we could have. He is a great footballer in my opinion. Also generous, always willing to sacrifice for the good of the team with an exceptional work-rate.

‘He is indisputable. Just as important off the pitch as on it. In the intimacy of the dressing room, he shows us what an exceptional human being he is, and I would like the people to recognise what he has done for Spanish football. And recognise him as one of the greats of Spanish football. Let’s hope this is not his final tournament with the national team.’

The feeling extends from the coaching staff and through the players, who feel protective of their leader. Like De la Fuente, they appreciate the selflessness of his runs that create space for others. ‘He plays up front and he is the one who runs the most,’ says attacking midfielder Dani Olmo. ‘He runs for himself, for the three in attack and for me. He helps us, he is the reference point, the number nine, a pillar up there.

‘That’s apart from the goals he can give us. The goals are the least of it, but he has scored a lot in World Cups, Nations League and other competitions. The most important thing is the work he gives, the solidarity he brings.’

De la Fuente settled eventually upon Morata as his captain following the retirement of Sergio Busquets after the World Cup and Jordi Alba, the last links to the all- conquering Spain teams that won back-to-back Euros in 2008 and 2012 and the World Cup in 2010. At 31, the Atletico centre forward has spent his entire career at the very top of the European club game, winning major honours with Real Madrid, Juventus and Chelsea, and making his Spain debut in November 2014.

With 36 international goals, he is fourth among the all-time top scorers for his country. Only two behind Fernando Torres in a list topped by David Villa (59) and Raul (44). With David Silva in fifth, this is territory for bona fide legends. Morata, however, remains unloved. He has drawn criticism for his erratic finishing, often amplified by public comments and his perceived sensitivity to it. His Chelsea career was most notable for some theatrical reactions on social media as he railed against criticism which had barely registered with anyone else.

He sulked and grumbled about Antonio Conte’s brand of football and struggled with a back problem during his time in London. Although he did score one or two majestic headers before negotiating an early exit.

Morata’s value to this Spain team is undeniable. His willingness to lead the line, hold the ball up and provide an aerial presence has enabled De la Fuente to add the luxury of two out-and-out wingers. Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal have earned the plaudits for their menacing pace. Olmo claimed the winner against France in the semi-final on Tuesday.

Rodri and Fabian Ruiz have dominated midfield, but it was Morata who set it all in motion with Spain’s first goal of the tournament less than half an hour into a 3-0 win against Croatia.

Morata is expected to lead out the team against England in today’s final, when he can become the first Spanish male to lift a major international trophy since Iker Casillas in Kyiv. Whether that will be enough to change the narrative remains to be seen.