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Conte calls on Costa to channel aggression

Antonio Conte is happy with Diego Costa's "passion" but wants the Chelsea striker to avoid risking punishment from referees.

Diego Costa has been warned by Chelsea manager Antonio Conte to channel his aggression on the pitch.

The Spain international, who struggled badly for form and fitness last season, has scored twice and registered one assist in his opening three Premier League games this term.

Conte admires the "passion" shown by the former Atletico Madrid striker but wants him to curb any recklessness in order to avoid being punished by officials.

"Diego is a passionate man and for this reason, sometimes, he risks the yellow card," the Chelsea boss said ahead of Sunday's match against Swansea City.