Chelsea's Diego Costa 'eager to play against Liverpool despite rib injury'

Chelsea striker Diego Costa has reportedly told the club that he wants to feature against Liverpool this Saturday, despite carrying a rib injury.

The Spain international was taken to hospital after damaging his rib in Tuesday's penalty shootout defeat to Stoke City in the fourth round of the Capital One Cup.

According to The Express, Costa is desperate to play in Saturday's crucial clash at Stamford Bridge and will have to have his ribs heavily strapped if given the green light.

The club are reportedly hopeful that Costa is suffering from bruising as opposed to a hairline fracture.

Reports have claimed that manager Jose Mourinho could be sacked if his side, who have lost eight of their 16 games in all competitions, fail to beat Liverpool.