Atletico Madrid Provide Update on Alvaro Morata After Forward Suffers Ankle Injury in Girona Win

Atletico Madrid have confirmed that Alvaro Morata suffered an ankle sprain in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Girona, and is set for a spell on the sidelines.

The Spaniard, who is on loan from Chelsea, limped off the field with just five minutes remaining and was replaced by defender Juanfran.

In a post on their official website, Atletico confirmed the news of Morata's injury. They wrote: "Alvaro Morata underwent tests at the Clinica Universidad de Navarra on Wednesday to know the exact extent of the injury he suffered in yesterday’s match against Girona at the Wanda Metropolitano and that prevented him from finishing the match. 

"The medical report indicates that our player suffers an ankle sprain. The striker is pending response to treatment."

Morata moved to the club in January as Chelsea opted to replace him with Gonzalo Higuain, and he has enjoyed an impressive run of form with Los Rojiblancos. He has registered four goals and one assist in ten outings for his new club, but now appears set for a spell on the sidelines.

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For Atletico, it is their 45th injury this season, as the squad continues to be ravaged by various issues. The vast majority of their injuries have been muscular, with many fans blaming their short summer break after the World Cup for the players' fatigue.

Morata joins Diego Costa, Thomas Lemar and Lucas Hernandez on the treatment table. With both Costa and Morata unavailable, Diego Simeone will likely be forced to turn to AC Milan loanee Nikola Kalinic to partner Antoine Griezmann in attack.

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The latest injury concern comes at a terrible time for Atletico, who are set to face rivals Barcelona on Saturday, in a game which could prove vital in the race for La Liga title. Victory over Ernesto Valverde's side would move Atletico within five points of the league leaders, but they will likely be without Morata for the crucial encounter.