Atletico Madrid fitness trainer Prof Ortega says the team is always stronger with Diego Costa playing.

Ortega is full of praise for Costa, who he believes is the common link between whether or not Atleti win trophies.

"He is an impressive footballer who has character and we win titles when he's on the team," the coach said in an interview with Esporte Interativo.

"He is a bull, he's quick, he's strong, he can score, he's good looking and he's not afraid of anything.

"He is a player who can provide imbalances.

"As a player, he needs to be good physically.

"If he is in shape and healthy then he's got it all.

"It's true that you can have situations like in last season when he got sent off against Barcelona and banned, but he can also bring you a lot of joy.

"I have a really good relationship with him."