Antonio Conte fires warning to Diego Costa

Costa has been on fire under new Chelsea boss Conte this season, scoring nine goals in 11 Premier League games.The Spain international has also managed to stay out of the headlines for the wrong reasons and Conte is delighted with his improved temperament.

“Diego is showing he can control himself,” Conte said ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Middlesbrough . “It's fantastic that Diego is improving in a lot of aspects.

“For me now, Diego is one of the best strikers in the world. He must continue that.”

Chelsea have won their last five games on the spin without conceding a goal.

GETTY Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has hailed Diego Costa as one of the best strikers in the world A lot of praise has been showered on Conte’s decision to switch to a 3-4-3 formation but the Blues boss believes their solid defence starts from the front.The Italian added: “Diego Costa is a very good player and the same for Eden Hazard, and it is important for me and Diego's team-mates to see him every game working a lot with and without the ball. He is an example for all.

GETTY Diego Costa has scored nine goals this season “If he continues to score I am very happy but I am happier to see this commitment and this work rate in training and in the games.”If all the players are able to think this way then we are a very good team, a very tough team.”