After a torrid 2015/16, Diego Costa has turned the tables. Antonio Conte was full of praise for the striker following Chelsea’s weekend win.
Chelsea fans breathed a huge sigh of relief on Saturday afternoon after the Blues snapped a worrying losing streak to defeat Hull City 2-0. Diego Costa got another goal and boss Antonio Conte was gushing with praise for the fiery striker.
Speaking to the press after the game, Conte was keen to praise Costa for his renewed vigour and great performances for Chelsea this season.
"It’s fantastic for him and for us that he’s scored six goals. Diego has the opportunities in every game but what’s important is the work he does for the team…When you work hard you usually get opportunities. I’m pleased for him. – via chelseafc.com"
Costa has been Chelsea’s best player in this campaign, hitting the back of the net in consistent fashion. More significantly, his performances have been much removed from the frustrating displays he regularly put in last season.
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The striker’s work-rate has rarely been in question, but the focus of his efforts last year were inappropriate. Costa appeared more concerned with fighting the opposition than getting the ball into their goal.
Under Antonio Conte, Costa has reverted to the person who took the Premier League by storm. A prime example of his renewed inspiration was the Arsenal game. While the rest of the team were hapless, Costa was the best Chelsea player, trying to feed off scraps and make something out of nothing.
Furthermore, Costa has realised that he is much more useful in the box than he is on the wings. A striker is supposed to be hovering around the opposition area, primed to seize any opportunity and convert any chance. His six goals thus far is testament to the fact he is fulfilling the role superbly.
Chelsea fans were justifiably infuriated with Costa last season. Much of the personal criticism was reserved for the likes of him and Thibaut Courtois. While the latter has given little reason for a change of heart, the former is doing his best to earn forgiveness.
However, Costa needs to maintain his form. The signs are encouraging, but the true test will be when the goals start to dry up. At that point, he will either find solace in unnecessary altercations on the field, or he will try to channel his emotions into helping the team.
For the moment, though, Costa deserves the praise that he is receiving. He is being the man Chelsea need to finish in the top four.