Home Football Mark Hughes: “this is a real shame for Chelsea”

Mark Hughes: “this is a real shame for Chelsea”

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Stoke City manager Mark Hughes says the exit of Diego Costa will be a massive loss for Chelsea who will miss the striker’s goals and aggression.

Costa, a key figure in Chelsea’s two Premier League title wins in last three seasons, appeared to have sealed his inevitable exit from Chelsea after they agreed to sell the 28-year-old back to Atletico Madrid.

“Costa was brilliant at taking it up to the line and then stepping back, affecting opposition teams,” former striker Hughes told reporters before Stoke welcome Chelsea in the league on Saturday.

“Maybe they don’t have that ability with the dark arts right on spec at the moment.

“I don’t know the whole circumstances, but from a football fans’ point of view I think he’s a loss to the Premier League.”

Hughes believes Stoke face the chance of hosting champions Chelsea with only one centre back available for selection.

Kurt Zomba is ineligible to play against his parent club while Ryan Shawcross and Geoff Cameron remain on the sidelines.

It leaves then with Bruno Martins Indi as their only regular central defender, who could be paired alongside full back Glen Johnson and Erik Pieters if they continue to field three at the back.

“We’re struggling a little bit defensively,” said Hughes.

“There’s a major doubt on Kevin Wimmer – he’s touch-and-go and we’ll have to see how he is this (Friday) morning.”

Stoke are currently placed 13th in the league and are on a three-game winless run since their 1-0 victory over the Gunners last month.

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