Everton were ‘going after’ Costa – Hiddink

Guus Hiddink suggested fatigue and Chelsea’s injury problems were major factors in their second cup exit in the space of three days – and said Everton had been “going after” Diego Costa before his sending-off.

Hiddink’s side, knocked out of the Champions League in midweek, missed out on the FA Cup semi-finals as they were beaten 2-0 at Goodison Park.

Chelsea, without the likes of John Terry and Eden Hazard, were on top for much of the game before Romelu Lukaku scored twice against his former club.

Boss Hiddink said: “There is a lot of emotions still going on after the game.

“When I try to calm down and analyse, the team did rather well for 70 minutes and then we conceded.

“The energy was out and we had a few injuries. I cannot criticise our attitude but the sharpness was left around the box.”

Hiddink insisted he did not see the incident involving Costa that led to the Chelsea striker being dismissed following a clash with Gareth Barry.

“If I had seen it I would give a proper comment, but it is difficult to give a comment on that,” said the Dutchman.

“It was a tough game between all the players involved – they were going after him a little bit.

“The referee doesn’t have to protect, but must know when they are going after them.”

More reaction from Goodison Park to follow later.