Chelsea’s dream spine come February

Diego Costa

Diego Costa all but banished any lingering concerns over his Chelsea future with a fine display in their 2-0 victory over Hull last weekend.

The Spanish international was left out of the Blues squad for the trip to Leicester ten days ago after reports emerged of a big money offer from China, but Conte restored him to the starting eleven against Hull, and he repaid his manager’s faith with his 15th league goal of the campaign.

It was a committed display from Costa who was cheered throughout by the Stamford Bridge faithful, and it also highlighted how important a player he is for Chelsea in their bid to regain the Premier League title this season.