Diego Simeone has said the returning Diego Costa had “lifted his team’s spirits” after the Spain international both scored and suffered an injury scare during a characteristically dramatic substitute appearance in Wednesday’s 4-0 Copa del Rey last-16 first-leg win at third tier Lleida.
“I am taking a lot more from the game than Costa’s goal and the fright,” Simeone said. “The team played a very good game against a side that competed well and started very strongly.
“Costa’s entrance lifted our spirits. Diego gives us pace, strength, commitment … what we expect from him.
He showed all that in those first five minutes. [His] goal was a very direct counter-attack. Vitolo must get involved with the needs of the team, bit by bit. He also entered very well. They are two players with status, and I hope they can reach their best form as soon as possible. Luckily we have many games coming up, which makes it easier for us to give them playing time.”
“We must remain relaxed, as extremes are bad,” he said. “But Torres and Gameiro also responded very well. The team did well in a tough game, which is what makes me happiest.”
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