Atletico Madrid President Enrique Cerezo has called for respect for Diego Costa, in light of recent criticism aimed at the forward.
Costa has been cited in the media and by opponents this week for controversial actions in the weekend win at Sevilla, including feigning a head injury after a coming together with defender Cala.
Even so, the striker can call on the support of his President.
“Just as they demand respect, we also ask that you respect Diego Costa,” declared Cerezo to reporters at a publicity event at the club this week.
“He is very good and he draws attention. He is harassed greatly by all defences but nothing happens.
“This is football and it’s a man’s game.”
The club have successfully appealed the Brazilian forward’s yellow card picked up at the weekend, which means he is available for next weekend’s Madrid derby.
“We have appealed because it is on a play in which Diego Costa has done absolutely nothing. He is a great player, and is important for us and in a game like this is necessary.
“His actions against Sevilla? Every player in every game plays differently. The other day was a special game against Sevilla and in the end everything went well, we won, which was most important.”
