Diego Costa’s character and temperament are often questioned by opposition fans, managers and players alike. But Watford boss Quique Sanchez Flores says he'd take the Chelsea striker's fiery personality over a team of “ice men”.

Costa was involved in the flash points during the Hornets’ 0-0 draw with the Blues this evening.

He first shoved Sebastian Prödl to the floor early into the contest before becoming embroiled in an incident with Juan Carlos Paredes shortly before half time.

The Ecuadorian first knocked Costa to the ground before the Spain international reacted in kind. It was all very overdramatic and the end result was a booking for both players.

Costa’s behaviour markedly improved in the second half and he caused Watford’s defence problems. He couldn’t, however, find a way past Heurelho Gomes.

And at full time Flores and Costa shared an embrace. The duo go back a long way.

Watford’s head coach said: “I love Diego. I coached him at Atletico and he showed amazing behaviour then. I love to meet the players I’ve trained in the past.

“He was younger when I coached him and I was wondering how I could improve his football. He was 20 years old, maybe younger, so it was important to look after him.

“You could feel his potential. His character is his character. It’s not bad.

"Sometimes for a coach, when you have this kind of character it is amazing. I prefer his character than ice men on the pitch.”