Cesc Fabregas: 'I have big respect for Arsenal'

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has insisted that he has "huge respect" for former club Arsenal following his side's 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to five points on Sunday thanks to a 2-0 victory over their London rivals.

Fabregas was jeered by some sections of the travelling Arsenal fans during the match, but the Spaniard has stressed that their reaction was understandable.

"I have huge respect for Arsenal," he told Sky Sports News. "I know that I would not have the things I have or won the things I have if it was not for them.

"I understand the fans' reaction, I know they love me but because of some certain circumstances it is not to be. But now I am with a great club, with great fans and a great coach and I am concentrating on that."

Chelsea are back in action on October 18 when they travel to Crystal Palace in the league.