Fabregas prepared to take on leading role at Arsenal

MADRID, July 13 (Reuters) Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas has said he is prepared to stay and take on the role of a leader at Arsenal following the departure of club talisman Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

Real Madrid have pushed hard over the last few days to lure the talented youngster to the Primera Liga as well, but Fabregas said his loyalty to Arsenal came first.

''The thing I have noticed is that I have a great responsibility here and the club have told me as much,'' Fabregas told sports daily Marca today.

''With the exit of Henry I couldn't do the same to a club who have shown so much confidence in me.'' The 20-year-old went on to stress the importance that Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger had in persuading him to stay.

The Frenchman only has one year left on his contract at the north London club, but Fabregas, who committed himself to Arsenal for eight years last year, was sure Wenger would continue beyond then.

''It isn't easy to put a boy of 16 in to the first team. He has always backed me so I am going to stay here and try and win many titles with Arsenal,'' he added.

''I am sure Wenger is going to extend his contract. I have a lot of confidence in him.'' He thanked Real for the interest they had shown and left the door ajar for a possible move in the future.

''I know you don't get many chances like that that but I am only 20. Now all I can do is work hard and try to improve. I am very young and hope to similar opportunities in the future,'' he said.

REUTERS SAM DS1640