Cesc sets trophy challenge

Long-term injury-victim Cesc Fabregas is convinced Arsenal can compete for the game's top honours in his absence.

The Spain midfielder has been told he must have complete rest for a month before he can even think about making the first steps back on the long road to recovery from a medial ligament injury sustained against Liverpool.

Fabregas has complete faith in his team-mates and is optimistic they can challenge for the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League this season is giving him cause for optimism.

He said: "My recovery schedule is not very exciting. I went to see the surgeon in Barcelona before Christmas and I'm going to stay for a month before I can start having a bit of treatment.

"I cannot move my right leg right now or really do a lot - I'm generally just staying on the sofa or the bed at home and resting my leg up.

"While I recover I will be praying for Arsenal to do well and hopefully we will be competing in the league, FA Cup and Champions League when I return."