Fabregas: It was worth it / Barca offer rejected

Midfielder Cesc Fabregas has admitted that he was feeling dejected throughout the World Cup as he had never been picked to start a match by Spanish coach Vicente del Bosque.

But the Arsenal captain came on as a substitute late on in normal time and immediately changed the game, having two chances that could have won the match for the Spanish.

Having missed a one-on-one with the Dutch keeper, and having a direct run stopped by a phalanx of Dutch defenders, Fabregas then set up the goal that won the match for Spain, scored by Andreas Iniesta.

It was a close contest, with the Dutch reverting to some pretty tough tackling that prevented Spain from settling into their passing rhythm.

Fabregas said: “It is an historic moment which we do not know if it will ever be repeated.

“I dedicate the win to my whole family. I was a bit down because I had not played much and did not want it to be like that, but in the end it was worth it.

“Thank you to the fans, they are the best. We have not noticed all of our supporters that much, but we know from family and friends. I hope that in two years we have another joy.”

And there is further good news for Gooners everywhere, as reports are emerging that manager Arsène Wenger has refused to speak to new Barcelona president Sandro Rosell over a move for Fabregas.

Arsenal have already turned down a €30 million bid, and have always maintained that Fabregas is not for sale.

There are also rumours that Fabregas has bought a new £2 million property in the Hertfordshire area of St Albans; this could be the strongest sign yet that he intends on staying in London.