In the build-up to the second leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie, Chelsea playmaker Cesc Fabregas has revealed how he plans to stop close friend and former FC Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi in the match.
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Ernesto Valverde's men go into the return fixture with an important away goal, which was scored by the Argentine in the latter stages of the first leg at Stamford Bridge.
Fabregas has now explained that, should he be picked to play in the match, then he will be sure to make Messi's night an "uncomfortable" one.
"If I am lucky enough to play, we are positioned in nearby areas of the pitch. Stopping him will be difficult but I will do everything possible so that he feels uncomfortable and can't put together a perfect performance," the Spaniard told Marca.
"I see him as a rival who wants to win, and I want the same thing. We are on different teams and each player wants what is best for their own club. Obviously, you always have respect for each other.
"It doesn't bother me to play against my previous club or old friends, it motivates me. I did it with Arsenal and now with Chelsea, I've felt pretty good on both occasions.
"Nobody should doubt that I want the best for my current club. In fact, it gives me extra motivation."
Messi has made 41 appearances for the Blaugrana so far this season, scoring 32 goals and assisting a further 16 strikes.
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