Cut Costa some slack: Hiddink

Chelsea boss blames Watford for trying to provoke Spanish striker in 0-0 draw.

WATFORD: Guus Hiddink accused Watford of trying to provoke Diego Costa after the Chelsea striker was involved in a series of clashes during a feisty 0-0 draw at Vicarage Road.

Costa appeared fortunate to avoid a red card after he pushed over Watford defender Sebastian Prodl and then shoved Juan Carlos Paredes later in the first half.

The second offence infuriated Watford’s players and finally prompted referee Mike Dean to book Costa.



But Chelsea interim manager Hiddink felt Costa was more sinned against than sinner on this occasion.

“It was very clear because we were very close. Paredes punched Diego in his back and after that they stumbled,” said Hiddink. “It’s provocation to get Diego off the pitch.”



Hiddink said Costa never looked like he was losing his cool, but he did concede serial offender Costa, who reportedly punched a hole in a tunnel walk after rowing with West Bromwich Albion players recently, must do more to keep control of emotions in general.

‘Barkley has come of age’

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley should no longer
be considered a young prospect but regarded as a player who can marshal and inspire his team, said manager Roberto Martinez.

The 22-year-old converted two late penalties in his 100th Premier League game for the Toffees as Everton eased to a 3-0 win over relegation-threatened Newcastle United.

“This [100 Premier League appearances] is remarkable,” said Martinez. “Today Barkley showed that he is not a young man anymore, he is someone ready to lead a team.” 

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th,  2016.

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