Cesc Fabregas is hoping that his display against Leicester will see him handed a start in Antonio Conte’s side when Chelsea rock up at the Emirates this weekend.

Fabregas, who would no doubt still be a central hub in the Arsenal midfield had he not held Arsenal to ransom by going on strike to get back to Barcelona, has played just 32 Premier League minutes this season, averaging just over 10 minutes per game (12’, 14’, 6’).

Speaking to the London Evening Standard after the win which saw him net twice and assist once, Fabregas said, “I lived moments there [at Arsenal] that I have probably not lived elsewhere in my career. 

“It was a very special place for me and that’s it.

“No matter what I hear, what they say to me, Arsenal will always be a fantastic special place in my heart.  They gave me everything.

Barcelona's new player Cesc Fabregas kisses his new jersey during his official presentation at the Camp Nou's stadium in Barcelona, after signing a new contract with the Catalan club, on August 15, 2011. Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has completed his move to Barcelona by signing a five-year contract with his boyhood club. AFP PHOTO/LLUIS GENE
Cesc rewarding Arsenal for giving him ‘everything’ AFP PHOTO/LLUIS GENE

“I will repeat it until I die. No matter what, they are always in my heart. It’s too early to know whether I will start or not. Hopefully, I will. I’m not going to deny that I want to play every single minute, this is what I work for.

“But the coach chooses the 11 he feels is best suited to win the game. 

“Whatever I am, I will support the team, inside or outside. When my time comes, I will try to perform, as I have been doing over the last few weeks.”

Now 29, many pundits are tipping Fabregas for a January move away from Chelsea if he fails to turn Conte around, something he may not be able to do unless he’s able to significantly increase his work rate going back.

Speaking after the EFL Cup game, Conte said of Fabregas, “I want to win and my choice is to win. I don’t care what their name is. For me it’s important when I call someone to play and they show me my choice is not wrong.

“All the players in my squad are a possibility to play against Arsenal. There are three days before the game and they have the opportunity to convince me to put them in.

“I am pleased for Cesc because he played a good game, he showed me great commitment in the training sessions. I am satisfied when I see this behaviour. This is the right way and I want my players to create good competition and, game by game, give me the opportunity to choose the best line-up.”