Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas ‘optimistic’ of facing Barcelona in Champions League

EPL : Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal v Manchester City (Getty Images)

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Cesc Fabregas is ‘optimistic’ that he will play a part in Arsenal’s Champions League game against Barcelona at Camp Nou on Tuesday.

The midfielder injured himself in the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Stoke two weeks ago and as a result missed their 2-1 defeat to Birmingham City in the League Cup Final.

Fabregas told reporters: “As far as my injury is concerned, I am feeling really good at the moment. I am doing everything I possibly can to get ready as soon as I can.”

The Spaniard believed he could have been on the bench today for Arsenal’s clash with Sunderland at the Emirates but it was agreed with the Gunners hierachy that he rest for return leg of the Champions League.

“Physically I feel good and it was good to have a bit of a rest too because I am sure I will come back stronger,” he added.

“It may have even been possible for me to be on the bench for today’s game, but we decided together that it would be better for me to rest well instead, have a good training session on Sunday, take a look Monday and then hopefully fly to Barcelona.

“I am optimistic that everything should be okay for Tuesday.”

Arsene Wenger will hope to have his influential captain fit as they look to avoid a similar outcome to the last time they visited the Catalan club when they were defeated 4-1 with all four goals coming from an inspired Lionel Messi.