Chelsea boss Antonio Conte insists he and Diego Costa do not need to calm down for Premier League season
Costa could have been sent off against West Ham for an ugly challenge on Adrian and he attracts plenty of negative attention
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CHELSEA boss Antonio Conte says he and striker Diego Costa will not be toning down their passion for this Premier League season.
Conte has won fans over with his enthusiastic celebrations and high-octane coaching from the sidelines while Costa has a more negative reputation, especially after his ugly lunge on West Ham goalkeeper Adrian on Monday night.
But Contre insists neither man needs to change, he said: "We must pay attention because tomorrow (v Watford) is dangerous and we need to send the right message, for confidence.
"It’s important to face the game with the right intensity and focus.
"I am a passionate man. I was the same when I started in this new career and with the Italy national team coach at the Euros.
"I am the same man. I play the game with great passion because I play with them and want to feel it.
"Also when you score an important goal, or win, you can celebrate and I am a passionate man.
"I am not able to keep my emotions in. I know it is strange but that’s me.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic said Costa deserved to be sent off and Hammers captain Mark Noble said video replays were needed to cut out such refereeing errors.
Costa instead claims he is unfairly targeted by referees and fans in England who treat him differently than other players in the division.
And the Stamford Bridge boss refused to blame his man and instead praised his commitment.
He said: "We all know Diego and he is a passionate footballer and somethimes I see he is on the edge when he plays.
"But I think he a good guy and a good player and he puts his passion in the football when he plays.
"I'm happy with his behaviour. I hope to continue so but we know he must pay attention because when many players talk about one player it is difficult for that player to stay relaxed because you are always the centre of attention.
"We are both passionate, that’s for sure. When you show passion for football it is fantastic. If you have it, every day you can work very well."