Committed Cesc leading by example

Committed Cesc leading by example

Published Feb. 18, 2011 1:21 p.m. ET

The Gunners skipper again played a key role as Arsene Wenger's men secured a memorable 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie on Wednesday night.

The Spain international's superb pass sent Samir Nasri bursting clear in the closing stages, with the Frenchman cutting the ball back for Andrey Arshavin to slot home the winner.

Fabregas was a summer target for his former club Barca but was persuaded to remain at Emirates Stadium for at least another season by manager Arsene Wenger.

Rumours relating to a return to his homeland continue to circulate, with Real Madrid now also reported to be monitoring the situation, but the 23-year-old wants to focus solely on ending Arsenal's six-year wait for silverware.

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Wenger's men have the Carling Cup final with Birmingham to look forward to, are well placed to challenge Manchester United for the Premier League title and tackle Leyton Orient in the fifth round of the FA Cup, on top of their European ambitions.

Fabregas said: "I'm showing I'm committed to this club and we want to do great things.

"I want to continue working to improve and help us win trophies. We are still fighting in all four competitions.

"We want to win everything and go the farthest possible in all competitions.

"My future is the last thing on my mind."

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