David Luiz being punished by Antonio Conte for Diego Costa friendship

Chelsea defender David Luiz believes he is being punished by Antonio Conte after trying to play the peacemaker during a rift between the manager and Diego Costa in January.

The Brazil international was a surprise omission from the matchday squad for Manchester United clash last weekend after Conte was unsatisfied with his performance in the 3-0 Champions League defeat to AS Roma.

Conte later said that he does not whether Luiz can retain a starting spot, thereby casting doubts over the Brazilian's long-term future at Stamford Bridge.

According to The Times, Conte was equally disappointed with the conduct of Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill following the Roma loss, but Luiz was the one, who was severely punished.

The former Paris Saint-Germain ace held a close bond with former teammate Diego Costa, and he is concerned that his involvement to solve the January bust-up may have played a part in the manager's decision.

Luiz rejoined Chelsea from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2016 and played a key role in the Blues' defence last term as they secured their second English crown in three seasons.