Chelsea star Diego Costa has hailed Radamel Falcao and predicted a big impact from the 29-year-old at Stamford Bridge, reports the Daily Express.
Despite also making his name with Atletico Madrid, the pair had vastly differing fortunes in their debut campaigns in English football. Costa hit hit the back of the net 20 times in a very successful time for Jose Mourinho’s side.
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The Colombia international scored a paltry four goals in 29 games last season while on loan with Manchester United, but will now have to help the Blues to defend their Premier League and Capital One Cup titles. However, he will likely be a backup for his new teammate, which could take some of the pressure off.
Costa certainly believes in the striker, saying: “Radamel Falcao is a very talented player who just needs a bit of affection. I’ve spent a couple of seasons with him and I reckon things went fairly well. He did a lot for me and he’s a great striker. He’s a top bloke too. He is a really big-hearted guy and that’s the most important thing.
“He is going to get everything he needs and I think he’ll be fine; I suffered an injury similar to his in 2011 and now I’m fine. All he needs is the consistency of regular football and to feel loved – which I think he’ll get from the manager – as well as his team-mates who will all be there for him. I think it’s good for us that he didn’t have the best of seasons as that’s why he’s now with us.”
With the two players the only senior centre-forwards currently at Stamford Bridge, Mourinho will certainly be hoping that they perform to their best. Perhaps more important could be the Spain international staying fit, with his dodgy hamstrings certainly a worry going in to the second half of the season.