Jose Mourinho defends Diego Costa approach

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has defended striker Diego Costa amid criticism of his physical style of play.

The 25-year-old has hit the ground running at Stamford Bridge following his £32m move from Atletico Madrid in the summer, netting seven goals in four games for the Blues.

However, Costa was criticised by Roberto Martinez for his goading of Seamus Coleman in Chelsea's 6-3 win over Everton, and was also booked for simulation against Burnley.

Mourinho told reporters: "This is a completely fake point. Maybe it's a point based on what happened in previous seasons, not what happened here. Here he got the right advice, the right education.

"The referees are there to see the provocation. Diego is trying to play. He's not afraid of aggressive opponents.

"He doesn't let other players intimidate him. He's not there to provoke people. He's there to play football and to score goals."

Chelsea take on title rivals Manchester City in their Premier League clash later today.