Football
Liam Twomey, Chelsea correspondent 8y

Diego Costa misses Atletico Madrid but 'very happy' with Chelsea

Diego Costa has said he misses Spain and still looks out for Atletico Madrid's results, but insists he is happy at Chelsea.

Costa was publicly pursued by his former club last summer, and in August the striker said he was tempted to return to Spain after a difficult season that saw him score just four goals in 20 appearances in all competitions prior to Jose Mourinho's sacking in December.

Chelsea never wavered in their determination not to sell Costa, who has responded with six goals in as many Premier League matches to begin the new campaign under Antonio Conte, and the 27-year-old is adamant he is comfortable with life at Stamford Bridge.

Asked by the Spanish media if he misses his adopted country, Costa said: "A little. I like Madrid a lot, have had some very happy moments here. But I'm very happy in London.

"I always follow Atletico and watch what they're doing. They're doing really well and I am so happy for them. Atletico have been at this level for a few years -- battling for every trophy and beating the best sides. I'm not surprised because they're a top side and they deserve it."

Costa also had words of encouragement for teammate Cesc Fabregas, who was overlooked by Spain boss Julen Lopetegui for the World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Albania after losing his starting spot in the Chelsea midfield under Conte this season.

"He knows that he has the chance to come back to the national team one day," Costa said of Fabregas. "It's always important to be called back by the national team."

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