Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has praised Diego Costa's improved performances this season after he scored the only goal in a narrow victory over West Brom on Sunday.
Having been frustrated for the majority of the game, Chelsea's winning run looked to be coming to an end.
But Costa's superbly taken goal in the 76th minute was enough to record their ninth successive win andtake them three points clear at the top.
I'm happy for him, I'm happy for the team, for Chelsea and the fans,� Conte said, quoted inthe Independent.
Because he's showing great passion, Diego. He likes to play football. He is showing great passion in every game, great commitment, good without or with the ball to help the team. It's fantastic. It's important to continue this way, but I'm very happy for him.
If you think that, after Arsenal defeat, Diego had four yellow cards and was on the edge [of a suspension]. But he continued to stay on the edge. It's incredible. I think he can arrive in January without a yellow card, I hope, but it's important to continue like this.�
Diego Costa has now scored 5 goals from his last 6 shots on target in the Premier League for Chelsea.
Unbelievable finish. pic.twitter.com/odV2rJRqpY
Conte was also quizzed on the rumours of a possible points deduction following the scrap at the end of Chelsea's win against Manchester City, but categorically dismissed it.
Are you joking,� he responded. "If you are involved in a situation, and it is not your fault, why must you pay? I don't understand it. At the end of the game, my Chelsea players tried to keep calm. I do not understand this. I do not understand this.
"We are trying to improve in all aspects, including this [disciplinary]. For this reason, I reply, you must be joking. You must be honest, and understand which team is at fault.�