control his temper and not to react to any provocations
when they take on Everton on Saturday.
The Spain international has been involved in a number of
unsavoury on-pitch flashpoints throughout the season and
has already been booked six times in 17 Premier League
appearances.
Costa was already on the receiving end of a three-match
ban for violent conduct during the win over Arsenal in
September and again struggled to keep himself in check
during the recent 2-2 draw with West Brom.
Both sides were subsequently charged by the Football
Association on Friday for failing to ensure their players
conducted themselves in an orderly fashion.
And Hiddink has now warned his not to go over the edge
ahead of the home clash with Everton, telling reporters: "He
is playing on the edge, but so are his opponents.
"They are provoking as well. If you see the little things, it's a
mutual thing. Nevertheless, he should control himself. He
didn't go out of order versus West Brom, but he was on the
edge.
"Players are smart. I talk with him about this. Not every day,
but we did have a chat this morning.
"The opponents like to provoke a bit, which is also normal in
a men's game, but he has to deal with that. And the referees
have to keep an eye on it as well.
"I'll always defend my players, especially when they are
very, very hot.
Costa has come in for criticism from both ex-Blues' boss
Jose Mourinho and the club's fans for turning in below-par
performances this season.
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