Atletico Madrid Forward Hails Alvaro Morata After Display in Victory Lifting Them Above Barcelona

• Atletico Madrid coasted to victory at home against struggling Deportivo Alaves
• Forward, Alvaro Morata was instrumental on the night for Diego Simeone's side
• An Atletico forward has hailed the team captain following his impressive display

Atletico Madrid's crucial victory against Deportivo Alaves, which saw them leapfrog Barcelona on the La Liga standings, was heralded by Spanish forward, Alvaro Morata.

The 31-year-old striker played a pivotal role for Los Colchoneros, contributing both an assist and a goal to help the team significantly close the gap to the top of the table.

Morata, who has enjoyed a brilliant start to the season, has been directly involved in 13 goals and provided one assist in 17 appearances through the campaign, according to statistics courtesy of Whoscored.

The Spanish national captain's exceptional form has not gone unnoticed and his Atletico teammates have been quick to acknowledge his contributions following yet another impressive display by the forward.

Real Madrid's forward Rodrygo de Goes sparks fan outrage with comments from recent interview

Football

Atletico forward salutes Morata

Following the conclusion of the match against Luis Garcia's Alaves, young forward Rodrigo Riquelme, who benefited from an assist by Morata, took a moment to praise the veteran forward during his post-match interview with La Liga TV.

Quoted by Atletico Universe, the 23-year-old forward expressed his admiration, saying:

"I hope everyone is fortunate enough to have someone like Morata, both on and off the field, for how he is and how close he is."

Riquelme also highlighted Morata's welcoming demeanour towards younger players at the club, stating:

"From the first day I joined for training, he treated me like one of the guys, and we truly appreciate that. He's always in a good mood, brings smiles to our faces, and shares jokes with us in a friendly manner."

Riquelme's words echoed the sentiments of on-loan Atletico forward, Samu Omorodion, who, in an interview with Marca after the game, showered praise on Morata and the team spirit he brings to the squad.

Euro 2024: Real Madrid defender explains how Spain kept Haaland quiet to seal qualification

Football

"Yes, everyone was very welcoming to me during my short time there to integrate. I have great rapport with Pablo Barrios, and I also talk to Morata, who was incredibly helpful during my stay in Madrid."

Morata, having played a crucial role in securing consecutive victories for his team, will aim to maintain his instrumental presence as they prepare to face Garcia Piamenta's Las Palmas at the Gran Canaria in their next fixture.

Morata's message to Mourinho

Sports Brief earlier reported on Morata sending a heartfelt message to AS Roma manager, Jose Mourinho.

The 31-year-old was Roma's biggest target this summer, but a deal between the two clubs did not happen.

Mourinho, then Real Madrid manager, gave Morata his debut when he was 18 years old in December 2010.