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Wenger expects title challenge
Arsenal, 17:52, July 31, 2010 ,
Arsene Wenger says he believes Cesc Fabregas will stay at Arsenal next season and lead them in their quest to win the league.
The 23-year-old Gunners skipper has been heavily linked with a move away to Barcelona this summer, the side he joined Arsenal from as a 16-year-old.
Fabregas is believed to be keen on a move to the Nou Camp, although he has admitted that it would be tough to leave north London should the Spanish side come in for him again.
While the media speculate over where the World Cup winner will be next season, Gunners boss Wenger is certain he will remain at Arsenal to help them challenge for the Premier League title.
Despite his glittering career with the Gunners, so far, all Fabregas has to show for his exploits is an FA Cup winners medal.
Despite all the speculation, Wenger remains confident Fabregas will stay to help Arsenal achieve their title ambitions.
"I have always said that Cesc Fabregas will be our captain next year and that we want to keep him," said Wenger.
"And, despite all the speculation from last season and the whole summer, nothing has changed."
"He's now at an age, 23 years old, he's just won the World Cup and I believe he will grow in authority again next season. The biggest achievement for him is to help us win the championship."
Despite the Frenchman's strong assertions, punters may be reluctant to use their free bet to back Arsenal to win the league, with or without Fabregas, perhaps instead using it to back one of the other title contenders.