Guus Hiddink admits that Diego Costa's absence through suspension has given him a problem as the Chelsea interim manager prepares for Monday's Premier League clash with Manchester United.
Costa scored twice as Chelsea began life after Hiddink with a 2-2 draw at home to in-form Watford, but the Spain international picked up his fifth Premier League booking of the season in the 88th minute to ensure he will miss the trip to Old Trafford.
“He is out for United, with a fifth [booking], which means we have to think how to solve that problem," Hiddink told reporters. "It's a pity because he'd put in a good performance. So we need to solve that problem in the next 48 hours."
Costa had scored just four goals in his previous 21 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions and Hiddink was full of praise for his striker's much-improved display against Watford.
“He [Costa] focused himself where he's good, and there he's very dangerous," Hiddink added. "That's important. He's not wasting extra energy where he shouldn't, and he did that."
His return to goalscoring ensured Costa a rousing reception from Chelsea supporters only a week after being booed at Stamford Bridge during the Blues' 3-1 win over Sunderland, and Hiddink revealed his treatment had made the striker more determined to win back the crowd.
“When Diego was booed – whether it was right or wrong – he had a very good reaction as a professional when he was substituted by Steve [Holland, against Sunderland]," Hiddink insisted. "I think that made him think: 'How should I go on?' He showed that [against Watford]."
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