Fabregas hits out at former Arsenal teammate Cole

Fabregas told the News of the World: “For me, Ashley Cole is a closed subject. He is not a friend because after leaving Arsenal he said many unjust things about us.

“In the world of football, respect between companions is the key – and he broke this rule.

“This player is forgotten – and also the person. I do not want to speak to him again.

“I believe that Cole was very well treated by Arsenal and that his response was not correct.

“I still don’t think I am a star, but a player who desires to progress each day.

“On the pitch I appear to be fragile but week by week I am ripening and will never be intimidated by anyone. Never.”