Cut Costa some slack, says Chelsea boss Hiddink

WATFORD: Guus Hiddink accused Watford of trying to provoke Diego Costa after the Chelsea striker was involved in a series of clashes during a feisty 0-0 draw at Vicarage Road.

Costa appeared fortunate to avoid a red card after he pushed over Watford defender Sebastian Prodl and then shoved Juan Carlos Paredes later in the first half.

But Chelsea interim manager Hiddink felt Costa was more sinned against than sinner on this occasion. "It was very clear because we were very close. Paredes punched Diego in his back and after that they stumbled," Hiddink said. "This is something we must not do. It's provocation to get Diego off the pitch."