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Hamstring problem for Chelsea's Costa

JOSE MOURINHO refused to comment on speculation that Diego Costa had to return early from the international break but the Chelsea boss confirmed the striker is a doubt for Saturday’s clash with Crystal Palace following reports the nine-goal hitman could be sidelined for a longer period.

A story on the Telegraph website claimed the Premier League Golden Boot odds-on favourite could possibly miss the next three weeks because of a hamstring problem.

Punters have had to deal with these rumours before and the last time Costa was supposed to be in danger of missing out he scored a hat-trick against Swansea, but it would be a blow for the Blues should the former Atletico Madrid man sit out the derby at Palace.

Chelsea were defeated at Selhurst Park last season and are 4-9 for revenge this afternoon as Mourinho’s pacesetters look to maintain their unbeaten start.

Bet365 rate the Premier League leaders 16-1 not to lose a top-flight contest this season.

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