Chelsea v Manchester City: Lay off Diego Costa, says Gary Cahill

Gary Cahill has urged Diego Costa not to change the way he plays, even though the striker is facing a three-game ban for violent conduct.

The 26-year-old is alleged to have stamped on Liverpool’s Emre Can during the Capital One Cup semi-final second leg on Tuesday and will find out his punishment today.

Costa also appeared to stand on Martin Skrtel in the second half but will not face any Football Association action over that clash.

However, Cahill feels the forward should not be portrayed as a villain and told the BBC: “It’s his character. It’s the way he plays. He’s a handful for a defender.

“One of his attributes, as well as his skills and scoring fantastic goals, is that he puts his foot in.

“He makes it difficult and uncomfortable for defenders — he is a physical guy.

“Would you change him? Probably not and I don’t think you should. Certainly as a team-mate, he’s somebody you want in your team.”