Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Guus Hiddink: I don’t want this Chelsea player to lose his edge
GUUS HIDDINK rallied behind Diego Costa, despite the striker being at the centre of a biting controversy.
Diego Costa (right) is sent off after his clash with Gareth Barry
Costa appeared to sink his teeth into Gareth Barry’s neck during a fiery FA Cup sixth round encounter at Goodison Park, in which Everton ran out 2-0 winners.
The Spaniard was shown a red card - his first in English football.
Though the incident marred the game, Hiddink refused to condemn the Blues talisman.
“I try to be fair in my judgement [on Diego Costa], I haven't seen it and it is difficult for me to say yes or no [if he had bitten Barry],” Hiddink said.
"He was chased a bit in the game. They went after him. They knew it. It is within the rules.
"I like him still going towards the edge but you also have to take into consideration he was desperate to play today.
Diego Costa - Spotlight on
"It would have been better to rest him but it is not the type of game you rest players.
"It is all the combination; not fully physically fit and all the provocations and he has to take responsibility for the incident."
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?