Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has admitted he is none the wiser over Diego Costa’s return date, but says the striker is ‘not ready’ for the start of Chelsea’s title defence.

Diego Costa played a huge part in Chelsea’s title win last season, finishing as the sides top-scorer. But the 26-year-old was once again absent last night from the Blues side as they took on Fiorentina in their final pre-season match. Chelsea lost the game, and end their pre-season without a single win in normal time.

The Blues take on Swansea on the opening day of the Premier League, but it seems they will have to begin their title defence without their star man.

“Costa is not ready.” said Mourinho.

“It is not a good feeling for him, it is not a good feeling for me.”

“I have to be honest and say that it is a bit of a concern. A player that didn’t finish the season and [then] doesn’t start the season obviously doesn’t make me happy.”

“The boy is trying hard but he has a problem against Barcelona [last Tuesday].” he continued.

“The scans show there is no injury so next day he trains, but the next day he is not comfortable. Then, 24 hours before the [Community Shield], we don’t know if he plays or doesn’t play.”

Having confirmed that Costa would be fit to face Arsenal in the Community Shield last week, Mourinho was left embarrassed as it turned out the striker was not fit. The Portuguese is reluctant to allow lightening to strike twice.

“I won’t risk my reputation again.” he continued.

“You asked me before last weekend and I told you he was ready to play. He wasn’t. I don’t know. I don’t risk saying yes, and I don’t risk saying no. On Friday at the next press conference I think I will tell you again that I don’t know.”

[Quotes via Standard]