Costa: I wouldn’t be criticised if I played for Real Madrid or Barcelona

Chelsea striker Diego Costa helped Spain to a 2-0 friendly win over Belgium in Brussels before calling out the Spanish media for their criticism of his performances for the national team.

Costa set up David Silva for Spain’s first goal before the Manchester City midfielder went on to score his second goal of the night to cap off a good performance for Julen Lopetegui’s men.

The striker was brought on in the 27th minute in place of an injured Alvaro Morata, and reckons it was one of his best games for Spain.

“If I were a Real Madrid or Barca player, you would say I played well,” Costa told reporters.

“I did bad games. But even if I don’t score, the truth must be said. I missed the goals but they will arrive.

“Media don’t lie many times when they say I have not done great things with the national team. But you have to say it as well when I play well.”

With just one goal scored in 11 appearances for Spain, Costa refuted criticism that it was another poor outing by his standards against Belgium.

“I think this one has been my best game with the national team. Not like other times when I leave hurt,” Costa said.

“It’s my bad because sometimes I f**k it, but other times some people make a storm out of a little thing.”

The Chelsea striker is likely to continue on the bench in Spain’s World Cup Group G qualifier against Liechtenstein next Tuesday as Morata was only taken off as a precautionary measure with that game in mind.