Chelsea striker Diego Costa has revealed his unhappiness with Premier League referees, saying they should protect him more on the field.
The 26-year-old Brazilian born Spanish international has impressed in his first season with Chelsea but criticism has also followed after a number of incidents involving his discipline on the field.
A recent stamping incident on Liverpool’s Emre Can landed the former Atletico Madrid forward with a three-match ban but Costa has taken time out to defend himself.
Speaking to Sport magazine, Costa said: “My challenges are strong but noble at the same time. Check my records, you’ll find I’ve never caused a bad injury to a player.”
“Some of the kicks I suffer in England would be punished with a red card in Spain. I am getting used to getting kicked more than before. Premier League defenders are really strong and physical.
“In England, the referees don’t call many fouls, as opposed to Spanish football. Consequently, you must be really strong all through the 90 minutes.”