Chelsea Did Not Pressure Diego Costa to Withdraw From Spain Squad

Chelsea did not pressurise Diego Costa to withdraw from the Spain squad for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Macedonia despite fears of a recurrence of a hamstring injury, national team boss Vicente del Bosque has confirmed.

Costa went off in the 1-0 defeat to France last week and has returned to the Blues for treatment in the hope he will be fit for the Premier League visit of Swansea City.

The 26 year old suffered from hamstring problems throughout the final months of his Atletico Madrid career while the Spain international was considered a doubt for the 6-3 win over Everton, in which he scored twice.

Paco Alcacer is set to lead the attack in the absence of Costa, but manager Del Bosque said: "It hasn't been easy with Diego. All his teammates are trying to help him. He's a great guy and has always shown interest in playing for Spain.

"When there were doubts surrounding his fitness, he was the first wanting to join the squad. Now he's in great form but I wouldn't suggest that he's feeling pressure from his club."

New Chelsea teammate Loic Remy struck the winner for France to down Spain and add to Costa's problems, as he continues to struggle to adapt to the demands of international football.

The Brazilian-born forward has scored four goals in his first three game for Chelsea but is yet to open his international account, having failed to find the net in five matches since making his debut before the World Cup.

Jose Mourinho's side are reportedly confident Costa will be available for selection this weekend despite another hamstring injury curtailing his involvement and Spain and Manchester City midfielder David Silva says Chelsea should have nothing to worry about.

"I've spoken with Diego and, fortunately, it's nothing serious," he said. "These things happen in football.

"We will eventually start connecting with Diego Costa because he is a great striker."