Fernandinho: 'Diego Costa clash was part of the battle of the game'

Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho has insisted that his controversial clash with Chelsea striker Diego Costa came down to "the battle of the game".

Costa was left requiring a bandage as an elbow from the Brazilian midfielder drew blood from the Spaniard's head during City's 3-0 victory over Jose Mourinho's men.

"It's normal. It is the battle of the game," said the 30-year-old, according to BBC Sport.

"I tried to win the ball in the air with my head, there was a small shock. That happens in football. The most important was the three points."

City have now produced two wins from two Premier League games without conceding a goal.