Spain striker reveals the moment he was won over by Luis Enrique

Spain striker Alvaro Morata has heaped praise on international manager Luis Enrique and revealed the moment he was won over by the coach.

Enrique, who managed Barcelona from 2014 until 2017, took charge of the Spanish national side three years ago and has been credited with successfully moulding the team in his image.

The 52-year-old has worked young talent such as Pedri, Gavi and Ansu Fati into his setup to rebuild the side and inspire hope that they could soon emulate the success of their 2010 World Cup-winning side.

Spain demolished Costa Rica 7-0 in their opening World Cup fixture and looked thoroughly impressive throughout the clash, making them the name on everyone's lips as the second round of group matches continues.

Speaking to Marca, Atletico Madrid striker Morata credited Enrique with inspiring the Spanish side and getting them to believe again.

Asked if the manager made Spain aspire for more, Morata said: “Yes, especially his personality. There are some times that he jokes with us, but he always helps us through good times and bad. In bad times, it makes those who do not play feel the same or even more important than those who play.”

Morata went on to detail how Enrique had personally helped him grow as a player, saying: “It’s hard to explain. He trusted me at the most difficult moment, not only in my career because I have gone through other bad moments, in my personal life as well.

"I felt that I had a whole country against me, it was a very difficult situation and he stood up and defended me against everyone. The only thing I’m trying to do is give him back that trust and everything he’s done for me.”

Morata pointed to one specific incident, which occurred during the group stages of last summer's European Championships.

“I got up and I didn’t even feel like looking at my phone, I only talked to my wife, my parents and my children.

"I went to the press conference without wanting to talk. I was waiting and I heard him say: ‘Morata and ten more.’ That’s when I knew that I not only had to think about the game, that I had to give everything and that when I came off in games I had to feel dead [with tiredness].”

Spain take on Germany in their second group match knowing that a win will guarantee they qualify for the knockout phase of the World Cup.