Cesc makes case for his defence. [ Wednesday February 27, 2008]
Cesc Fabregas is happy to continue to allow his own talents play second fiddle to the good of the Arsenal team.

Fabregas has slowly matured during his time under Arsene Wenger’s stewardship but has found himself assuming a new level of importance since Thierry Henry left for Barcelona in the summer.

All eyes were on the young Spaniard at the start of the season as he struck seven goals in nine games to help convince Manchester United et al that there is life after Henry at Emirates Stadium.

Despite his rise to prominence, Fabregas is keen to play down his own impact, insisting he is happy to adapt his game to the benefit of the team rather than merely to showcase his own talent.

"I have grown up a lot since I joined Arsenal, but especially in the last year. Defensively I feel much more responsible," he told the Official Arsenal Magazine.

"It is true that before, I was playing more for myself, a little bit individually to see if people were talking about me. Maybe I wanted to show more of my own stuff, but now I don't care. It is completely different.

"I realise I am playing more for the team. If I'm not man of the match, if I'm not player of the month anymore I don't care, because I know I'm doing extra positive things for the team and now that gives me the most pleasure.

"I think you are not going to see the Cesc who always tries to do nice things anymore. Now if I have to defend for 90 minutes for the team then I will do it."

Fabregas was quick to praise the role of his midfield partner Mathieu Flamini in helping him discover his newfound desire to impress at both ends of the pitch.

“Flamini has helped me a lot in the defensive side of my game," he added.

"The way he defends, his passion for the game, sometimes he makes me realise that I have to help out defensively. If the right-back goes forward then I have to stay back, or cover the centre-back."