Diego Costa says the atmosphere has improved massively under Antonio Conte (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea forward Diego Costa has aimed a sly dig at former boss Jose Mourinho by saying life is more enjoyable under Antonio Conte this season.

The Blues finished tenth last season after Mourinho was sacked in December but they’re restored their superiority this term with a 13-game winning run putting them top of the table.

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Conte’s side are aiming to equal Arsenal’s 14-matching winning streak when they travel to White Hart Lane to take on Spurs on Wednesday.

Costa, 28, has been in red hot form for the Italian’s side and he’s aimed a thinly-veiled dig at his former boss by saying the atmosphere is far better now at Stamford Bridge.


Mourinho was sacked at Stamford Bridge 13 months ago (Picture: Getty)

‘I think it’s really important for managers to be liked by his players because ultimately on the pitch, those players will give everything for their manager,’ said Costa.



‘We have had a change of manager, he is working us hard, but people like him, which is important for everyone connected to the club because it creates a good atmosphere.

‘Sometimes you have managers that have to be the boss, but this manager is a bit friendlier and there is closeness there

‘It is really important to have that at your workplace for you to come in and feel happy. You need a good atmosphere and a bit of fun.

“When a game comes around, that’s the time to be serious. During the week the training sessions are serious, but away from there, you have to relax and switch off.

‘We are a family, we spend so much time together, we have to do things that bring us closer together because if not, everything will be too regimented, too professional and I don’t like that, it’s not for me.’

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