Diego Costa Did Not Bite Me, Gareth Barry Says

Chelsea's Diego Costa (in white) clashes with Everton's Gareth Barry during the Toffes 2-0 FA Cup Quarter-final win over The Blues at Goodison Park on Saturday. | image source: telegraph.co.uk |

Everton midfielder Gareth Barry says Chelsea striker Diego Costa did not bite him when they clashed during Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final.

Costa was shown a second yellow card for his part in the incident, in the 84th minute of Chelsea's 2-0 defeat at Goodison Park, but denied biting Barry.

The Toffees player, who was later sent off, has backed Costa's claim.

The Football Association is awaiting referee Michael Oliver's report before deciding if more action is necessary.

Costa responded to a tackle from Barry by confronting the England international, moving his head towards him and in the direction of his neck.

Blues manager Guus Hiddink said the 27-year-old striker had been "chased a bit in the game" and was provoked by Everton players.

Barry was sent off three minutes after Costa when he was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Cesc Fabregas.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez said the 35-year-old had not complained after the match about his clash with Costa.

- BBC