Diego
Costa says he would be more fairly treated by the Spanish media if he was a
"natural Spaniard" playing for Real Madrid or Barcelona.
The Brazil-born striker set-up David Silva's opening goal in Spain's 2-0 win
over Belgium shortly after replacing the injured Alvaro Morata on Thursday
night.
Costa, who has netted 34 Premier League goals in 57 games for Chelsea, has
scored just once in 11 appearances for Spain since switching nationalities
in 2014, but defended his performance against Belgium.
"They criticise me a lot and if I played for Real Madrid or Barca and was a
natural Spaniard they'd say I had a good game, possibly my best for the
team," said Costa.
"I didn't score but I can be useful to the team. I participated a lot in the
game and I leave here happy, unlike in other games."
Costa, who last year was banned for three games for stamping on Liverpool's
Emre Can, scored in Chelsea's opening two Premier Leagues but was also
booked in both matches.
"I haven't done great things for Spain, I can't lie, but when I play well
they should say so. They criticise me for my character, but I also have
quality," added Costa.
Silva scored Spain's second goal from the spot in Julen Lopetegui's first
game in charge since succeeding Vicente del Bosque.
Spain begin their qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup at home to
Liechtenstein on Monday and Costa said he is optimistic about his and the
team's fortunes under the former Porto and Spain under-21 coach.
"A new era has started. I have faith in my team mates," Costa said. "It's
true that I have unfinished business with scoring but today I felt good and
the goals will come.
"I'd be more concerned if I didn't have chances, but the team is creating
them and that's good. I will score soon."
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