Cesc keen to silence the critics

Spanish star 'upset' by doubters

Last updated: 9th June 2008

Cesc keen to silence the critics

Fabregas: International critics

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Cesc Fabregas is determined to silence his critics with Spain at Euro 2008.

The Arsenal midfield star has struggled to recreate his club form at international level and, despite netting 13 times in all competitions last season, he has yet to open his goalscoring account at international level.

Speculation is rife that the 21-year-old will fail to make manager Luis Aragones' starting XI when Spain kick-off against Russia in Group D on Tuesday.

And Fabregas admits the criticism he receives for his country does distress him, but he is focused upon quashing the doubters as Spain bid to sample success on the international stage for the first time since the 1964 European Championships.

Analyse

"It doesn't upset me, but people are always saying the same thing about me," said Fabregas.

"I'm only 21. I'm trying to do my best and I have talked to the boss about it, but reading the same thing every day isn't very nice. I'm just here to do my best.

"You have to analyse the way we play for the national team.

"At Arsenal there is only one channel between the defence and attack and that is me, so I'm involved in practically all the attacks, but here there are more variations, more ways of attacking.

Adapt

"It's is up to me to adapt, but after over two years with the national team I think I've done pretty well. Good players have to be able to adapt to any type of football.

"At Arsenal I had a period when even if I stubbed it with my big toe it went in. I don't only think about scoring goals but creating them. Why think negative when I can think positive."

Fabregas also dismissed suggestions that he finds it difficult to play alongside Xavi in midfield.

"I feel comfortable with all my team mates," added Fabregas. "Xavi is used to the Barca system and he has been outstanding.

"For me, it is great to play alongside him and the other players we have in midfield. The more quality we have in the team the better."