Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis has insisted that he 'understands' his teammate Diego Costa's decision to play his international football for Spain.

Costa, who has scored 13 times in La Liga this season, recently chose to commit his international future to Spain, where he had gained residency, despite being born in Brazil.

Luis faced a similar situation before committing his future to Brazil, but he holds no grudges against his club teammate.

"I understand Diego Costa 100%. I was in the same situation myself for a little while and I took a decision that marked my career," Luis told reporters at a press conference.

"A national team has many factors which can influence you, but overall, the decision has to come on a professional level and I believe that Diego Costa with Spain, is very important. He's highly valued and he will feel an important part of their team."

Injury prevented Costa from making his Spain debut last week.