Hiddink holds talks to calm down Costa

CHELSEA interim manager Guus Hiddink has spoken to Diego Costa after his dismissal at Everton and hopes the striker can learn to control his volatile temper.

Costa, who has scored 11 goals in his last 16 games, was sent off for the first time as a Chelsea player in last week’s FA Cup exit at Goodison Park and will miss today’s Premier League match against West Ham through suspension.

He had until 6pm Thursday to respond to a charge of improper conduct following his reaction to being shown red by referee Michael Oliver. It is understood the verdict will be announced next week, but, if found guilty, his suspension could be extended.

Hiddink said: “I talked to him and we talked many times about him playing on the edge and his reactions. We were happy and are still happy with his performances. What we all like, but not going over the edge, is to play as he is doing, with a lot of blood.”