Cesc fears Sevilla backlash

Spaniard feels sorrow could strengthen Sevilla

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 18th September 2007

Cesc Fabregas Arsenal Football

Fabregas: Wary

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Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas thinks the death of Antonio Puerta could make Sevilla more determined to take the UEFA Champions League by storm.

Spanish international Puerta collapsed during Sevilla's recent league match against Getafe and later died in hospital, aged 22.

Fabregas believes Sevilla are strong enough to move on from the tragedy and have a successful season, and is wary of the threat they will pose for Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday.

"Sevilla will be professional and they have to keep going," said Fabregas.

"They are going well in the league and I do not think it will change anything because they are a great side.

"The tragedy could be one extra motivation, of course.

"He always wanted to play in the Champions League and this was the first time in a long time they had qualified. For them it is very special."

Fabregas was a close friend of Puerta's from their time together within the international setup.

He added: "We made our debuts together for the Under 21s together. Antonio was a great guy.

"It was a big shock for everybody, for all of Spain because he was such a great guy with so much potential. For his family it is terrible."