Morata is sickened by abuse from Spain fans

ALVARO MORATA has revealed the sickening abuse he and his family received during Spain’s three home group games. Speaking to radio station Cope, the former Chelsea forward, 28, said: ‘People should put themselves in my place and think what it’s like to receive threats and insults to your family like: “I hope your children die”. ‘Then if there is some sort of tragedy, the same people say:

“Ah yes, he was a nice kid”.’ Asked to elaborate, he said: ‘Every time I go to my hotel room I have to put my phone out of reach. People send me things I don’t want to see. ‘The memes don’t bother me. What bothers me is when my wife and children go to Seville with the name of their father on their shirts and they have all manner of things said to them. It’s difficult. ‘I understand people booing me for missing chances but there’s a limit.’ Morata has been at the centre of attention since before the tournament began after being booed by Spain fans in a friendly with Portugal, and then missing big opportunities in the 0-0 draw with Sweden and 1-1 draw with Poland. He also missed a penalty in Spain’s 5-0 win over Slovakia on Wednesday. Talking about the game with Sweden, when the jeers seemed to be getting to him, Morata added: ‘The problem is that people think: “This boy is cocky”, when actually this boy didn’t sleep for nine hours after the game and he’s upset he had chances and Spain didn’t win.’ Despite the abuse and criticism he has faced, Morata said he feels a huge level of support from his team-mates, adding that former Spain great Iker Casillas had called him to lift his spirits. ‘I’m proud of the fact I picked up the ball (to take the penalty against Slovakia) after people booed me in the warm-up,’ said Morata. ‘A few years ago I would have been devastated but I’m really motivated. Whoever thinks the opposite doesn’t know me. ‘It’s hard to find a group like this, especially in the difficult times. ‘After a week like this I’ve been aware of how everyone looks at me but I look in their eyes and see they are supporting me.’ Spain coach Luis Enrique defended his striker ahead of Monday’s clash with Croatia, pointing out that his goal record — 20 in 43 games — is only bettered by David Villa.