Guus Hiddink has hit back at Diego Costa's critics after he was labelled an idiot for being sent off in last weekend's 2-0 FA Cup defeat at Everton.

The Blues striker has constantly tread the disciplinary line since joining the Blues from Atletico Madrid, escaping without sanctions on multiple occasions.

But he picked up his first red card in a Chelsea shirt after a scrap with Gareth Barry which later landed him a further FA fine for a 'bite' on the Everton midfielder.

And Hiddink believes the Costa criticism is too harsh.

He countered: “It is too strong a word. If you know the definition of an idiot, that is not him. It’s not always if you are in the very hectic situation, it’s difficult.

“Yeah, that’s why I defend him - his contribution is brilliant. I judge him fairly.”

The Chelsea forward received further punishment after an apparent 'bite' on Barry, despite the fact the former England midfielder denied it.

Consequences: Diego Costa is sent off for a second booking after a scrap with Gareth Barry

Television evidence showed the Spain international pushing his mouth towards his neck, but nothing conclusive after that.

And former Netherlands manager Hiddink was left frustrated with the decision to punish him further, though says Costa has accepted the suspension .

He added: “Of course he was not happy. He will see if he gets the other game as well.

“I think he was not happy with it, of course, and will it go to a third game? Yes or no.

"He desperately wants to play of course, he accepts he is suspended but is not happy with it.

“The kiss, or bite, whatever you mention it, Barry made a very good statement by saying what has happened - or not happened in this case.

“Maybe there was a little bit of searching for Costa - where can we get him? He is frustrated.”

Read More: Catch up with Guus Hiddink's Chelsea press conference in full.

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