FANS are shocked at Spain's choice of new captain.
Alvaro Morata succeeding legendary midfielder Sergio Busquets was labelled a "joke".
Right-back Dani Carvajal, 31, will the vice-skipper.
But many supporters feel the two choices by new national boss Luis de la Fuente sum up Spain's recent plight, which included a Qatar 2022 last-16 exit to Morocco.
Busquets and his predecessor Sergio Ramos were the last link to the golden age of Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Co that peaked with 2010 World Cup glory.
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Chelsea flop and current Atletico Madrid striker Morata is the man who has been chosen to lead the side on the pitch.
It should be said ex-Real Madrid and Juventus star Morata has a decent international pedigree, including 30 goals in 61 games.
But he disappointed at Stamford Bridge from 2017-2020, spending the last 18 months on loan at Atletico before joining the Spaniards for £58million.
And fans noted Morata follows Barcelona great Busquets, iconic hardman defender Ramos and 167-cap keeper Iker Casillas as captain.
One observer wrote: "Spain went from the greatest captain of all time to Alvaro Morata."
A second posted: "Went from one of the best defenders to Hattrick Offside merchant."
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And a third was just as stunned: "No way Morata’s captain."
Another fan claimed: "That national team is a joke."
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Morata, however, is delighted with his "incredible" new role.
AS report the Madrid-born targetman as saying: “I’ve been here with Dani (Carvajal) since we were two kids. It’s a tremendous joy. Not to be captain, but to defend the shirt of my country.
"Our role now is to help the newcomers. There’s a fantastic group and we don’t need a lot of help, but that’s what it’s all about.
"If people need something they can count on us."
