Cesc Fabregas grateful for "very nice" reception from Arsenal supporters

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has admitted that he found it "difficult" returning to the Emirates Stadium to face former club Arsenal last month.

The Spaniard spent eight seasons in North London with the Gunners before departing for Barcelona in 2011.

Fabregas made a switch back to the Premier League last summer when Jose Mourinho came calling, with April's goalless draw the first time he had returned to his old hunting ground.

Despite receiving a mixed reception, the 28-year-old was grateful to those who remembered his achievements at the club.

"There were some [boos] at the beginning, but at the end of the game when I came off it was very nice," he told Sport Magazine. "So that's what I take from it. I just tried to take it as a normal day and play my game.

"It is difficult because obviously I know that I played there for many years. I know the pitch and the memories do come back to you, but you have to be professional and get the three points for your team.

"Well, that's what I hoped for. As it turned out, the draw was a very good result for us."

Fabregas has recorded 18 assists and scored three goals for Chelsea in the top flight this season.