Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chelsea legend Michael Ballack says he has been impressed with Cesc Fabregas this season despite the criticism the Spaniard has endured.
The German spent four seasons at Chelsea, scoring 25 goals in 166 matches and helping Carlo Ancelotti's team to the Double in 2009-10 as well as winning the League Cup and the FA Cup three times - he was also a crucial part of the team that was so close to winning the Champions League in 2008.
Fabregas, 28, has recevied a lot of flak this season for poor performances, especially compared to the brilliance of the title winning campaign last season. The Spaniard has just two goals and six assists in 33 matches this term after scoring five goals and adding 22 assists in 2014-15.
Fabregas was excellent as Chelsea were beaten 2-1 by Paris Saint-Germain, earning a vital away goal at the Parc des Princes.
"I've seen a few games from him and I'm always impressed by him, the whole season," said Ballack, working as a pundit on BT Sport.
"He's a serious player, he knows what he's doing on the pitch. Even if he's not very active on television, like today, he always makes 90 per cent the right decisions, in terms of passing, running and closing space."
Ballack added that Chelsea will be pleased despite the defeat, especially given the make-shift back four Guus Hiddink had to play.
"It's a fair result," he said. "Chelsea had great effort, great fight, I didn't expect them to be that good to be honest. They have to do it again at home, don't step back, same performance and I think they have a good chance to win."
Fellow BT Sport pundit Rio Ferdinand agreed.
"Chelsea will be much the happier team, an away goal," said the former Manchester United defender. "We said before the game the back four have to play well, also the goalkeeper, and I think to a man they did well today.
"They were very, very good, worth the away goal, definitely."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments