Ivanovic believes Diego Costa will 'come back strongly' after benching

Branislav Ivanovic has backed his storied teammate Diego Costa, whom Ivanovic believes will return strongly after being dropped to the bench for Chelsea's trip to Tottenham on Sunday.

The out-of-form Spanish striker reacted angrily when it appeared that he would not get an opportunity at White Hart Lane, and flung his bib in the direction of manager Jose Mourinho in disgust following his final warmup.

Related - 3 takeaways from Chelsea's draw with Tottenham: The end could be near for Costa

Ivanovic was keen to point out that the whole squad is responsible for its struggles this season.

"We start the season as a team and we have to finish as a team," the Serbian full-back told ESPN FC. "This is important. When we start losing, we all know it's not about the one or two players playing badly or playing well - it's about the team."

Ivanovic tipped Costa, who has just four goals in 17 competitive appearances this term, to have an impact in his return to the first team picture.

"I expect him to come back strongly. Sometimes for a player who isn't playing it's difficult, but it is a normal situation for the club.

"He scored against Norwich - the winning goal. It's all about the team. We all have to think about that."

Chelsea is next in action when Bournemouth visits Stamford Bridge next Saturday.