Toby Alderweireld has admitted that it will be "very difficult" to stop Diego Costa when Southampton host Chelsea in the Premier League tomorrow.

The Spaniard is the top scorer for the league leaders so far this season with 13, just one behind Sergio Aguero, who leads the Premier League.

The defender, who was a teammate of Costa's at Atletico Madrid last season, told BT Sport: "It is very difficult because he is fast, he is strong, he has technique. He can score goals, is good with his head, so I have to be at my best to stop him.

"They are the best players in the world, especially Diego and Eden Hazard. We have to be at our top to beat them.

"Two days after a game, play another game, that has never happened to me before. I will prepare myself the best way I can and I hope to be 100% for Sunday."

Southampton beat Crystal Palace 3-1 yesterday to move back up to fourth in the Premier League table.