Spain forward Diego Costa has paid tribute to his international teammates after scoring twice in La Roja's 8-0 victory over Liechtenstein on Monday night.

Costa entered the 2018 World Cup qualification Group G clash having only scored once in 11 appearances for his nation, and that disappointing form saw the forward left out of Vicente del Bosque's squad for Euro 2016.

The 27-year-old is firmly in the plans of new coach Julen Lopetegui, however, and enjoyed his best Spain outing as he hit a brace in Leon to help his team record a thumping win.

"Not only [have I been supported by] the coach, but my teammates have never left me and always supported me. Now things are going well for me," Costa told reporters. "I had a difficult time of it and a forward needs goals, but I think I'm now more involved in the game and knew the goals would come.

"I could never complain about my teammates. I have to give them my thanks for how they've always supported me and never let me throw in the towel. Criticism is normal because more is always asked of international players."

Costa has also scored twice in three appearances for Chelsea this season.