No use beating about the bush any longer: Costa is done.
After his excellent beginning of the season came the ‘China Bust-Up’.
Since then Costa’s goal-scoring has fallen off a cliff while his utterances to the media force loyal fans to play an endless game of ‘will he/won’t he’.
Now it’s got to the point where the answer to the above is ‘Please do!’
While we’ve long worried about the Brazilian-turned-Spaniard’s lack of true pace, his overall sharpness in front of goal has now also all but dulled.
A huge clue to his lack of passion for the cause is his lack of irritation with opposing defenders.
Where once all they got is a snarl, on Saturday we were treated to the bizarre sight of Costa waving on medical staff to help a fallen opponent.
Normally this would be a sign of class. But in the aggressive Costa’s case, it’s a sign that his fire has gone out.
If the likes of Sakho and Hennessy form an impenetrable barrier for a Chelsea striker then it’s time to get a new one.
Certainly before we try to pierce Champions League defences.
If it were down to me I’d bring back Tammy Abraham today.
Spensierato (we’re still a mighty 7 points clear).