Diego Costa’s return to form and fitness could prove more valuable for Atletico Madrid than their eight new signings, according to team-mate Saul Niguez.
Five pre-season goals – including four and a red card in the stunning 7-3 thrashing of rivals Real Madrid – suggest the controversial striker is getting back to his best.
He managed just 16 appearances in LaLiga last term due to a combination of injuries, Alvaro Morata’s arrival and a season-ending eight-game ban for insulting a referee.
Costa still has one match of that suspension to serve but looks to be enjoying a new lease of life after two lean campaigns.
“Diego looks great to me,” Spain midfielder Saul told Spanish radio station COPE.
“I love it when he’s like this, [because his attitude is] infectious. He’s a player we need at all times.
“I love that he defends his team-mates as he did against Madrid, that he fights for the shirt and I think that if Diego Costa is at his best level he will be the best signing we have.”
Yesterday we closed the #AtletiSummerTour with a victory against the MVPs of the @Mls
Thank you to all the fans who have joined us in these 3 games in the United States!
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SoccerNews
Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.
You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.