Monday 14 March 2016 01:08, UK
Diego Costa might have had an ulterior motive for his behaviour in Chelsea's defeat at Goodison Park, according to the Sunday Supplement panel.
The enigmatic Blues striker was sent off for the first time since arriving in England in Chelsea's 2-0 defeat at Everton, after clashing with Gareth Barry.
There were allegations that Costa tried to bite Barry, which have since been denied by the Everton midfielder, but The Sun's European football correspondent Antony Kastrinakis told the Sunday Supplement he believes Costa's actions were part of a plan.
"Costa had exactly the same reputation at Atletico Madrid as he has developed in England," Kastrinakis said. "His behaviour over the last few months is purely to show Roman Abramovich that he wants out.
"He wanted out last May. There were stories from various friends of his that he wanted to return to Atletico Madrid. It could have been done in January when Atletico made a bid, but Chelsea would not let him go.
"I think all of this is his frustration, because he wants to play elsewhere."
Regardless of his motives, Costa could face further action after yet another flashpoint in his career, and the Daily Star's chief sports writer Jeremy Cross is in agreement there is more to it this time.
"There is probably an ulterior motive to his behaviour, but he is idolised by children all over Europe and here in the Premier League - you just don't do it," Cross said.
"It just sums him up. He obviously has a switch that goes on and off.
"Chelsea will worry because he will have a reputation that precedes him with referees, and opposition players will be out to wind him up."
Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink admitted in his post-match news conference he had not seen the incident but admitted frustration may have played a role.
"(Costa) was chased a bit in the game. They went after him. They knew it. It is within the rules," Hiddink said.
"I like him still going towards the edge but you also have to take into consideration he was desperate to play. It is all the combination; not fully physically fit and all the provocations and he has to take responsibility for the incident."
