Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Chelsea must start Diego Costa to avoid another slip-up claims Paul Merson
CHELSEA must recall Diego Costa to the starting line-up against Bournemouth.
Diego Costa was an unused substitute against Tottenham
That is the opinion of former Arsenal star turned Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson.
Costa was dropped for the goalless draw against Tottenham last weekend and expressed his displeasure on the bench by throwing his bib in Jose Mourinho’s direction.
The Spaniard has struggled for form this season, netting just four goals in the Premier League.
But Merson reckons Costa simply has to start otherwise Bournemouth could sneak a result.
“Diego Costa has to play for Chelsea. If he doesn't I think Bournemouth could get something,” Merson told Sky Sports.
“Eddie Howe could set them up to squash the play and force Chelsea into playing it long.
“If they are forced to go long Eden Hazard, Pedro, Willian, and Oscar are not going to win any balls.
Diego Costa - Spotlight on
“Bournemouth will be buoyed by the late goal they got against Everton. It was a big goal and something they can build on but it's not ideal for them to have to travel to Stamford Bridge straight away.
“If Howe can get his tactics right and press Chelsea they will cause Jose Mourinho's side a few problems.
“If they don't it will be a comfortable win for the home side.”
Paul Merson thinks Diego Costa has to start against Bournemouth
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?