COSTA
Diego Costa says he would be more fairly treated by the
Spanish media if he was a "natural Spaniard" playing for Real Madrid
or Barcelona.
The Brazil-born striker set-up David Silva's opening goal in Spain's 2-0
win over Belgium shortly after replacing the injured Alvaro
Morata on Thursday night.
Costa, who has netted 34 Premier League goals in 57
games for Chelsea, has scored just once in 11 appearances for Spain since
switching nationalities in 2014, but defended his performance against Belgium.
"They criticise me a lot and if I played for Real
Madrid or Barca and was a natural Spaniard they'd say I had a good game,
possibly my best for the team," said Costa.
"I didn't score but I can be useful to the team. I
participated a lot in the game and I leave here happy, unlike in other
games."
Costa, who last year was banned for three games for
stamping on Liverpool's Emre Can, scored in Chelsea's opening two Premier
Leagues but was also booked in both matches.
"I haven't done great things for Spain, I can't lie, but
when I play well they should say so. They criticise me for my character, but I
also have quality," added Costa.
Silva scored Spain's second goal from the spot in Julen
Lopetegui's first game in charge since succeeding Vicente del Bosque.
Spain begin their qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup
at home to Liechtenstein on Monday and Costa said he is optimistic about his
and the team's fortunes under the former Porto and Spain under-21 coach.
"A new era has started. I have faith in my team
mates," Costa said. "It's true that I have unfinished business with
scoring but today I felt good and the goals will come.
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