Fabregas not tempted by Spain

Midfielder proud to be a Gunner

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 15th November 2007

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Fabregas: Settled

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Cesc Fabregas has insisted there is no chance of him leaving Emirates Stadium to return to Spain.

The midfielder has been strongly linked with both Real Madrid and Barcelona in the past but he maintains that he is proud to be an Arsenal player.

He enjoys being part of a close-knit squad and is only interested in fulfilling his potential, rather than any financial rewards.

He said: "I'm not even thinking about returning to Spain. I don't even listen to the offers that come in for me because I don't need anything that I haven't already got at Arsenal.

"And it's nothing to do with money. If it was I would have gone to Real Madrid last summer.

"I am not moved by money, I am moved by football.

"I am playing and I am happy. Being a Gunner is very special, something that I am proud of. This is a small club on the inside, like a family, but it's huge on the outside."

Less hasty

Fabregas has been in sparkling form this season but he feels the only major difference is more composure in his finishing.

"I think I'm playing the same as ever but the ball is going in for me which makes it look like I am playing better," he explained.

"I was getting in front of goal and being hasty but one day Wenger told me to relax and now I take my time - you could see that with the goal against Manchester United."

Fabregas admits the entire team has been forced to step up following the departure of Thierry Henry.

He commented: "Henry is the best player in Arsenal's history and that's why people panicked when he left. It was like having to mature all of a sudden, a wake-up call.

"He was like an umbrella that we hid beneath and when he went we were forced to step forward and take responsibility."