Spain boss Vicente del Bosque believes Alvaro Morata has what it takes to become “a great striker” in the same vein as Robert Lewandowski and Luis Suarez.
Morata was one of only two recognised strikers called up by Del Bosque for Euro 2016, Athletic Bilbao veteran Aritz Aduriz being the other, and the Coach claimed his show of faith in the Juventus man was his biggest indication yet that the player was destined for success.
“[On Vazquez], it’s necessary to have players who are individually capable of solving problems. Lucas comes fresh with excitement and enthusiasm, and he’ll bring something to the team if we’re lacking,” he told AS.
“I hope [Nolito] does what he’s done with Celta and in recent friendlies. I prefer a specialist in a position to someone who isn’t, no matter how good they are.
“Nolito does a good job on the wing in both an attacking and defensive sense. He opens the pitch, is good individually and has a goal in him. What more could we want?
“I think he’s different [to David Villa]. Villa lived for goals, but Nolito has another purpose. I think he’ll help us and bringing him in was a wise move.
“I hope [Morata’s price increases in France], that would mean that he’s done well and also the team.
“I expect [of Morata], hard work, movement, shots and, if there are chances, goals. He has to approach the midfielders, offer himself and provide an outlet to passes from his teammates.
“He has to stretch teams, knowing how to play on the shoulder. In short, [he needs to do] everything you expect from a good striker.
“That is his challenge [to compete with the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Luis Suarez], and he has the potential to achieve it, hence why he’s here. The best proof that I believe in him is that he’s been called up.
“Morata has very good qualities: physical strength, intelligence to move in the attack, intuition in the box, two feet, good with the ball and in the air. He has everything to be a great striker.
“We’re delighted with [Aritz Aduriz]. He has a great demeanour and has some qualities that we’ve seen all season.
“He’s scored a lot of goals. Also, I’m glad because he’s an example to a society where it seems that the old are no longer worthy of a normal life. Age isn’t a merit or demerit, it’s a state.”
