Friday, 15th November, 2013
Atletico Madrid forward David Villa feels Spain should consider themselves fortunate to have his club team-mate Diego Costa in their ranks, after what was a "brave" decision to leave Brazil behind.
Costa was forced to pull out of this month's friendlies with injury during a La Liga game, but the Brazil-born striker is a definite possibility for next year's World Cup with La Roja.
Costa switched national allegiances – after a prolonged tug-of-war between the CBF and the RFEF – with no less than Pele respecting his decision.
Villa has now joined the Brazil legend, telling AS: "The views are there and should be respected. It was not an easy decision. You just have to put it in context and analyse what he has done.
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"He made it clear he wanted to play for Spain. Although born in Brazil, sportingly, Diego Costa feels Spanish and has been very brave."
"And we've been fortunate that wants to play with Spain. It gives us more and more potential solutions for La Roja."
That sporting spirit has seen Costa play all his club football in Portugal and Spain, though in the latter he has gone through several clubs on loan.
He has penned a long-term contract at Atletico – until 2018 – and has scored 13 goals in as many La Liga games this season.
"He's a very good boy", Villa added. "Very humble, well-liked in the dressing room and has a great desire to continue growing in football and that is vital.
"His career is marked by the fact that he has the desire to succeed. He has been transferred four times but has not stopped succeeding at Atletico."
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