Chelsea defender David Luiz believes team-mate Diego Costa is one of the best players in the world following his impressive start to the Premier League campaign.

The striker looked out of sorts during his second season in the Premier League but has returned in 2016-17 at the top of his game.

Costa currently leads the way in the league’s goalscoring charts after hitting seven in eight matches as Chelsea, who are priced at 11.00 to win the Premier League, sit in fifth place.

The Spain international’s style of play has been heavily criticised since he made the move to Stamford Bridge, but Luiz feels it is harsh on the 27-year-old hitman.

Luiz, who returned to Chelsea this summer, is happy to be in the same team as the physical forward and insists has to be regarded as one of the best in the world.

The former Atletico Madrid man has netted 39 times in 62 appearances for the west London outfit and Luiz has praised his hard-working attitude.

Luiz said: “I love the way he plays, and I am happy now because he plays in my team and it’s difficult to play against him! He never makes life easy for the defenders.

“I like Diego because he never forgets where he came from. That’s why he fights until the end for his team. He never gives up.

“He never forgets when he was playing with small teams in difficult leagues and difficult stadiums. I like these people, they want to give everything.”