Fabregas: I didn't abuse Kanoute

Barcelona star Cesc Fabregas has defended himself of accusations that he racially abused Freddie Kanoute in their 0-0 draw with Sevilla.

The ex-West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur forward was sent off after a confrontation during the goalless draw with the Catalans, and Fabregas was embroiled in controversy as it was claimed that he spat racial insults at Kanoute.

However, according to reports in the Sun, the ex-Arsenal captain refuted the accusations, saying: "I spoke with Kanoute and we said what we had to say".

"Like every football player, I'm no saint, but I never said anything racist."

The bust-up was sparked by Kanoute, who had kicked the ball off the penalty spot just as Lionel Messi was preparing to take the spot kick that would have sealed a late win for the La Liga giants.