Chelsea hopeful of Diego Costa return for Arsenal showdown.

DIEGO COSTA is targeting Chelsea's showdown with Arsenal after his latest injury setback.

But Jose Mourinho is prepared to give Costa an extended break to overcome his hamstring problems if Chelsea have got the Premier League title virtually sewn up.

Chelsea striker Costa has been told he will be out for 15 days after limping off against Stoke on Saturday.

Spain international Costa has been told not to do any ball work this week, he will work on his physical strength and have intensive massages.

 Costa is then due to see a muscle specialist recommended by Chelsea's medical staff to give him the all-clear to step up his rehabilitation and training.

 Title favourites Chelsea face Arsenal on April 26 and Costa will be determined to play - but they will not take any more risks.

 Chelsea boss Mourinho has been adamant that Costa will not need an operation on the problem which dates back to last season during the striker's spell at Atletico Madrid.

 Costa played through the pain barrier with the hamstring injury and went to the World Cup with the issue still causing him problems.

Chelsea are confident that an extended rest will resolve the issue while Costa fears that if it does not clear up then he may go under the knife this summer.