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Antonio Conte defends Chelsea star Diego Costa's style of play: 'I need to calm myself first before the players!'

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has defended Diego Costa's demeanour u2012 and joked he 'has to calm himself down before his players'.

Costa, who was fortunate not to be sent off at Stamford Bridge, netted a dramatic last-gasp winner on Monday night.

The striker was booked in the first-half and escaped without another booking in the second period when he caught West Ham keeper Adrian with a reckless challenge.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte defended Diego Costa's behaviour in the win over West Ham
Chelsea boss Antonio Conte defended Diego Costa's behaviour in the win over West Ham
Costa, speaking ahead of the clash against Watford, revealed his similarities with the striker
Costa, speaking ahead of the clash against Watford, revealed his similarities with the striker

Conte, speaking ahead of his side's clash at Watford, refused to criticise his striker despite the controversy surrounding their Premier League victory.