Fernandinho explains controversial clash with Chelsea's Diego Costa during Man City win

Fernandinho clashed with Diego Costa during Manchester City's win over Chelsea

FERNANDINHO has attempted to play down the severity of his challenge on Chelsea striker Diego Costa during Manchester City's 3-0 win at the Etihad.

 

Costa took an apparent elbow from Fernandinho in the first-half as the pair rose to compete for a high ball.

The controversial Chelsea striker tried to confront the midfielder at half-time and had to be held back, but Fernandinho has played down the event.

"It’s normal. It is the battle of the game," the Brazilian, who netted City's third goal, explained.

"I tried to win the ball in the air with my head, there was a small shock. That happens in football. The most important was the three points."

 

It’s normal, it is the battle of the game

Fernandinho

On the victory, he added: “It’s a good way to start. Two wins form two games, six goals, none conceded. Beat the champions at home? It’s the best way to start. 

"You can see on the pitch, every player works very hard during the week in training and then in matches. 

"Two wins and I hope we can do that in the following games because we are fighting for the title. 

"It’s good because they are a good team, but our team is strong, we have a good team as well."