Cesc Fabregas admits that lack of Chelsea minutes ‘upset’ him
Cesc Fabregas returned to the Chelsea team on Saturday and put in a masterclass. However, the midfielder admitted that sitting on the bench affected him.
Chelsea defeated Swansea City 3-1 on Saturday afternoon to extend their lead over Arsenal and Manchester City. Cesc Fabregas started the contest (his sixth Premier League start of the campaign) and put in a wonderful display to lead the Blues to victory. Speaking after the game, the Spaniard explained just how upsetting it was to be on the sidelines earlier on in the season.
"In the beginning when I didn’t play, I told people not even to speak to me because I was really upset…He came in, wanted to see if I could adapt and I can understand that. I’m someone who wants to play with the ball, maybe not so much the defensive side. – via Metro"
Fabregas has endured a difficult season. The Spaniard was initially not in Antonio Conte’s plans, with Nemanja Matic preferred as N’Golo Kante’s midfield partner.
However, Conte has allowed Fabregas opportunities to show that he does deserve to start. While the Italian is certainly a man who likes to do things his way, he has also shown that he is willing to pick on form.
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After impressing in numerous substitute appearances and in the FA Cup, Fabregas was given his first Premier League start in seven games against the Swans. He grabbed the opportunity and delivered the goods. A goal in the first half was material reward for a busy and creative display, while there were echoes of Frank Lampard as he made several late runs into the box.
While his initial marginalisation may have hit him hard, his attitude over the last few months has been fantastic. Rumours have linked him with moves away from Stamford Bridge, but Fabregas has reiterated his desire to make an impact with this Chelsea team.
Saturday can be seen as the culmination of his battle to prove himself. Fabregas is a player of immense class and quality, but reputation does not get you a place in an Antonio Conte team.
Hopefully, Conte will now stick true to form and start Fabregas more frequently through to May. Matic and Kante is a partnership for the bigger games, against the likes of Manchester United and City. However, the rest of the league poses little threat to the Blues and thus they can afford to play the more expansive Fabregas.
What do you think? Do you want to see more Fabregas? Let us know in the comments section below!