Hleb 'shocked' by reports

Midfielder denies criticising Wenger and Fabregas

Last updated: 8th July 2008

Hleb 'shocked' by reports

Hleb: Shocked by reports

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Alexander Hleb has denied making disrespectful comments about Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and team-mate Cesc Fabregas.

The Belarussian, who has been linked with a summer move to Barcelona, was critical of Wenger and Fabregas in a reported interview.

Hleb had suggested his view of how he fits into the team differs from that of Wenger, and he also claimed Fabregas was selfish in front of goal.

However, the former Stuttgart ace admits he is 'shocked' by the reports and says he would never besmirch either his manager or his midfield cohort.

Not true

"I am shocked by some media reports," Hleb told his personal website.

"In some newspapers it was mentioned that I have attacked Arsene Wenger and Cesc Fabregas.

"But let me tell you: This is not true! The statements in the papers are definitely not my statements.

"I would never ever say something disrespectful about them. And there is a simple reason for this: Cesc is a very good friend of mine and Arsene is one of the persons I respect most."