Football: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says Cesc Fabregas could recover in time for big Nou Camp clash
Published: 4 March, 2011
by STEVE BARNETT
Fabregas could face Barcelona
ARSENE Wenger is “hopeful” that Cesc Fabregas will be fit to face Barcelona on Tuesday after ruling the Arsenal captain out of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Sunderland.
Fabregas stated in his programme notes ahead of the 5-0 FA Cup fifth-round replay win over Leyton Orient on Wednesday that he hoped to return against the Black Cats following a hamstring injury.
Wenger, however, moved quickly to quash any chances the Spaniard had of playing at the Emirates on Saturday.
“We go from day to day,” said Wenger. “For example, two or three days ago we were thinking to play him on Saturday if all goes well, but it looks like that could be a bit risky.
“He will not be tested before Monday. I, personally, hope he will play on Tuesday. He has a chance to play in Barcelona.”
Despite wanting to save Fabregas for their midweek European tie, Wenger insists that winning the Premier League is top of Arsenal’s priority list this season.
The Gunners will take a 2-1 lead to Spain in the last 16 of the Champions League. But out of the three trophies the club is still vying for, Wenger wants to get his hands on the Premiership crown the most.
“It’s down to our results – that will decide the championship,” he said. “Do we win our games? It just depends on us. Every game is a cup for us.
“The most important trophy is the Premier League because you win the league after 38 games. The race is tight, and exciting. I don’t rule out Chelsea or Man City because everybody can drop points. If we maintain our consistency we have a very good chance.”