Champions League: Costa gets horse placenta treatment to help fitness race

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa is using experimental horse placenta treatment in a last-ditch bid to be ready for the Champions League final.

Costa, who is wanted by Premier League side Chelsea, picked up a hamstring injury on the final day of the La Liga season.

Now the 25-year-old has turned to revolutionary treatment to get himself fit for the biggest match of his career to date.

However, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has told AS that the club will not risk the health of Costa by forcing him on to the field.

“It depends on this horse placenta that he’s going to be treated with.

“I don’t know because I’m not a doctor and, to be honest, if it’s harmful to him then it’s best if he doesn’t play but, if he doesn’t play, whoever plays in his position will do phenomenally well.

“We’ll look to go out and win. Depending on the course the match takes, we’ll win or we’ll lose but the team is mentally prepared, is strong and is up for it. 

“That doesn’t mean we’re going to win but at least we’ll bring something to the match. It’s 50-50.”

Manager Diego Simeone believes it is crucial the team sticks with its all-for-one mentality if they are to cap off a remarkable season with another trophy.

“If we stick with this base, humility, work and conviction that no one is more important than anybody within the team... then we will be ready to keep growing the way we have until now.

“We had a long week to prepare for a unique opportunity. 

“I really hope my guys play and get ready according to what the team needs.”