Chelsea striker Costa denies bite at Everton

Diego Costa maintains he did not bite Everton's Gareth Barry during a confrontation in Saturday's FA Cup tie at Everton, according to a club spokesman.

The Spain international was sent off late in the 2-0 quarter-final defeat at Goodison Park after clashing with Barry, who was also sent off moments later for his second booking after fouling Cesc Fabregas.

Television replays suggest Costa made to bite his opponent, before thinking better of it at the last second.

Interim Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink said in his post-match conference he would reserve judgement on the incident until he has had chance to see it for himself.

When contacted by Press Association Sport, the Football Association said it was aware of the incident and would wait for referee Michael Oliver's report before a decision would be made about any possible action.

Hiddink, speaking after the match, was reluctant to be drawn on the incident.

"I try to be fair in my judgement, I haven't seen it and it is difficult for me to say yes or no," said the Dutchman, who revealed he had not yet spoken to his player about it, .

"Without seeing, I don't want to give judgement on this.

"He was chased a bit in the game. They went after him. They knew it. It is within the rules.

"As a referee you must protect the situation but knowing and feeling the atmosphere - then comes the moment that I would like to give judgement (on) but I haven't seen it."