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Conte thanks Costa for Chelsea contribution, but insists club moves on

Action Images via Reuters / Carl Recine Livepic

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has no problem thanking outgoing striker Diego Costa for his contributions to the club over the last three seasons, but stressed he wants the matter to remain in the past.

Costa has been the subject of a year-long transfer saga after demanding a move to Atletico Madrid and finally got what he wanted as the parties announced a deal in principle that will see the 28-year-old return to La Liga next January.

Related: How should Chelsea fans remember divisive striker Diego Costa?

Conte's role in the affair was key to the move, as the Italian boss texted Costa last summer informing the player he was no longer in his plans, despite the Spain international helping deliver a second Premier League trophy in the last three years. Since then, Costa has been on self-imposed exile.

"I don't forget that we won together," Conte said, according to Jack Austin from the Independent. "I repeat - for sure we want to thank him for his effort last season, not only last season but in the period he played for Chelsea. We wish him all the best for the future.

"Now it is not important, I am not interest to continue talking about this issue. I am working with my players and am happy to work them. This issue is not important."

Conte added: "Now I am not interest to talk about the past. I think the past is not important. For every coach and player, the past stays there. We have to work for the present and future to build something important."

If Costa is the past, then new signing Alvaro Morata is Chelsea's present and future. He'll be on display Saturday as the Blues play Stoke City, before coincidentally taking on Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.

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