Costa: I wouldn’t be criticised if I played for Real or Barca

Rob Conlon

Diego Costa believes he is criticised by the Spanish media because he was not born in the country.

Chelsea striker Costa has scored just once in 11 appearances for Spain since switching nationalities from his native Brazil in 2014.

The 27-year-old came off the bench in Spain’s 2-0 victory over Belgium and provided the assist for David Silva’s opening goal.

“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,” he said.

“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.

“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.”

Belgium, meanwhile, were booed off after the encounter in Brussels, which marked Roberto Martinez’s first match in charge.