Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho has insisted that his controversial clash with Chelsea striker Diego Costa came down to "the battle of the game".

Costa was left requiring a bandage as an elbow from the Brazilian midfielder drew blood from the Spaniard's head during City's 3-0 victory over Jose Mourinho's men.

"It's normal. It is the battle of the game," said the 30-year-old, according to BBC Sport.

"I tried to win the ball in the air with my head, there was a small shock. That happens in football. The most important was the three points."

City have now produced two wins from two Premier League games without conceding a goal.