Jamie Redknapp has claimed that Chelsea striker Diego Costa is the best centre-forward in the Premier League following his goalscoring performance against Manchester City.
The Spain international led the Blues' revival after going 1-0 down following Gary Cahill's own goal on the stroke of half time.
Costa netted on the hour mark before Willian and Eden Hazard rounded off a 3-1 triumph at the Etihad Stadium, which put Antonio Conte's side three points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
The game ended on a sour note from City's perspective as Fernandinho and Sergio Aguero were sent off, with the latter handed a straight red for a reckless challenge on David Luiz.
In his Daily Mail column, Redknapp wrote: "Could you imagine the backlash if Costa had gone in for a challenge as bad as Aguero's on David Luiz? We all see Sergio as the saint and Costa the sinner but this was the complete opposite.
"I was up in the stands on Saturday and could even see Costa acting as peacemaker during the fracas at the end.
"We are blessed with the quality of centre forwards in our league. Earlier in the season I would have said Aguero was the best of the bunch but now I have to pick Costa. He is the perfect all-round centre forward."
Costa has scored 11 league goals so far this season.
Danielle Joynson
