Chelsea striker Diego Costa came under widespread criticism for his actions after his altercation with Arsenal’s Gabriel Paulista on September 19, but the Spanish superstar remains unapologetic.
Many blasted the former Atletico Madrid ace, the most outspoken being Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, and the 27-year-old forward was even axed from the national team by Del Bosque as a result for his “unedifying” actions in the 2-0 win.
Nonetheless, the player insists that he will not alter his aggressive style of play in order to increase his approval rating from football fans. Speaking to Football Focus, the Brazilian-born attacker said:
"I've got this far thanks to the way I play the game.
"I'm not going to change that because of what people may think of it."
Costa was subsequently suspended for three games by the FA for violent conduct, the second time in two seasons in the English Premier League, yet Costa insists that he has no problem continuing to be the devil in order to earn the Blues victory.
"I think that football has always had a passionate, aggressive side, with players giving their all," Costa added. "People have to get used to this.
"Some people seem to think football is like theatre, and that everyone has to play the good guy.
"But I think that you transform when you cross the white line, you're not the same person as off it. I give no quarter and I ask for none. Out there I'm going to fight for my team and do the best I can.
"Afterwards, when the match is over, I have my family and my friends. I have fun like a normal person. But on the pitch don't try and put wings on me, as I am no angel."
Diego Costa, one of many underperforming players in a below par Chelsea side, has only three goals to his name in all competitions so far, and is likely to feature in Saturday's all-important trip to West Ham.
