Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has insisted that Diego Costa has demonstrated he is among the best strikers in world football thanks to his impressive form this season.
The Spain international has hit the ground running following a largely disappointing campaign last time out, bagging nine goals so far in the Premier League to top the scoring charts.
Costa is in contention to feature against Middlesbrough this weekend after returning early from international duty with a groin injury, and Conte was quick to talk up the former Atletico Madrid star's attacking qualities on the eve of the match.
"Diego is one of the best strikers in the world," he told reporters. "Diego works a lot with the ball and without the ball. He's an example for all.
"And I want [him] to continue this way. Then, If he continues to score, I'll be very happy. But I'm happier to see this commitment, this work-rate during training sessions and during games.
"He must continue to work in this way. If all the players are able to think in this way, we'll be a good team, a very tough team to play."
Costa has also set up a further three goals for his teammates in the top flight this term, helping a resurgent Chelsea side up to second place in the table.
