Diego Costa Banned For Chelsea's Boxing Day Clash With Bournemouth After Picking Up Fifth Yellow Card
Costa picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Palace (Photo: Dan Mullan)
Costa looked dismayed when referee Jon Moss brandished the yellow card just 22 minutes into Chelsea's game at Crystal Palace
The Premier League's top goalscorer picked up his fifth yellow card of the season in the midday match at Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Costa took a swipe at the legs of Palace midfielder Joe Ledley on 22 minutes and was summoned by referee Jon Moss, much to his disbelief.
The Spaniard stood with his hands on his hips while remonstrating towards the match official.
But the mood did lighten for Costa later in the first half, as he returned to his position as the Premier League's outright top goalscorer with a fine header.
Costa jumps highest to put Chelsea into the lead (Photo: Reuters)
His header looped over goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey
(Photo: AFP)
Costa celebrated his goal with manager Antonio Conte
(Photo: Getty Images)
Full-back Cesar Azpilicueta lofted a sumptuous ball into the box which was perfect for Costa.
Scott Dann could not shrug off the challenge of Costa, who cushioned a header over goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey to give the Blues the lead.
Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez will get the chance to overtake Costa in the goalscoring ranks over Christmas.
Chelsea will have their star man back for the New Year's Eve visit of Stoke City.
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