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'Costa was Atleti's Messi' - Simeone explains 2014 Champions League call

The talismanic striker left for Chelsea after inspiring a La Liga title win and a productive run through European competition at Vicente Calderon

Diego Simeone has no regrets over selecting Diego Costa for the 2014 Champions League final - likening the Spain striker's influence over Atletico Madrid at that time to Lionel Messi's at Barcelona.

Costa helped to fire Atletico to a stunning La Liga title win in 2013-14, scoring 36 goals in all competitions.

However, a thigh injury dogged him during the final weeks of the campaign and he lasted only nine minutes against rivals Real Madrid in Lisbon.