Fury over text claim by Costa

CHELSEA boss Antonio Conte has hit out at Diego Costa over his impending departure – and insisted no single player is bigger than the club.

The Spain striker had claimed that he was dumped in a text message from Conte at the end of the season.

The claim has infuriated the Italian, who insists Costa knew his time at the Bridge was running out since a bust-up in January.

Conte said: “In January, it was very clear, every situation was very clear: for the club, his player, his agent, it was very clear.

“I don’t like to speak to about players who are not here, but I can tell you that, in January, the situation was very clear.

“I didn’t take the decision in June or in May. I took the decision in January.

“Only one player is not important. The most important thing is the team, the squad and for it to be together.”