But on Costa he could not be clearer, with a firm message of support for the Spanish striker who has curbed his temper but also his knack for scoring.
Conte said: “I’m not concerned about this. It can happen.
“The most important thing is he is showing me great commitment and behaviour during the games — and is doing what I want.
“He has been unlucky in a lot of circumstances. But a player like Diego Costa can score in every game. I’m sure he can do this.
Diego Costa has been down on his luck for goals but is tipped to soon bounce backRex Features
“He is also giving me his experience, character and personality.
“That’s very important for us and the team. Diego has won in the past.
“Goals are very important for forwards. But he knows that, for us, he’s an important player if he is scoring or if he isn’t. He must continue with his commitment and then I’m sure he’ll score.”
Costa last scored for Chelsea more than a month ago in a 2-1 win at West Ham.
Diego Costa put early-season troubles behind him but has just 3 goals in 2017Rex Features
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He scored 14 Premier League goals in a blistering run-up to the new year. Since then he has been booked three times, suggesting his frustration at failing to find the target is getting the better of him.
Conte insists there is no issue and that the situation does not require special attention.
He said: “No, no, no. I don’t think so. I speak with all my players and, if I’m not happy with someone’s commitment or behaviour, then I would speak to him.
Striker Diego Costa and midfielder Eden Hazard have been linked with summer exits from Chelsea but manager Antonio Conte is delighted with their formRex Features
“But if he’s not scoring? I repeat: He’s playing good football and doing what I want.”
Chelsea have been boosted by Victor Moses’ return to training and the wing-back is expected to start at Bournemouth today.
Conte said: “We are a team and not 11 single players. If you think to win the game with only one player, you are in trouble.
“If you are working as a team with an idea, you must find the right solution when a player is out through injury or a ban.”
Former Chelsea and Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri visited Conte this week to watch training.
Conte has also denied fresh rumours he may quit the club for Inter Milan — with his family planning to move to England.
The Blues boss, who has two years left on his deal, said: “I think in Italy they want me to come back. It’s normal, to listen to a lot of things in this moment.”
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