Euro 2020: Ex-Chelsea striker axed for semi-final

Former Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has been dropped for Spain’s Euro 2020 semi-final against Italy.

The 28-year-old has started the previous five matches and scored twice, including a crucial strike in the last-16 win against Croatia.

However, boss Luis Enrique has opted not to field a natural centre-forward against Roberto Mancini’s side.

Mikel Oyarzabal, a winger by trade, takes Morata’s place between Ferran Torres and Dni Olmo in the front-three.

Spain are aiming to get to their third European Championship final in the past four tournaments after winning the trophy in both 2008 and 2012.

Spain starting XI: Simon, Azpilicueta, Garcia, Laporte, Jordi Alba, Koke, Busquets, Gonzalez, Ferran Torres, Oyarzabal, Olmo.

Subs: de Gea, Diego Llorente, Pau Torres, Marcos Llorente, Morata, Gerard, Thiago, Sanchez, Gaya, Rodri, Fabian, Traore.