“Never say never” – Fabregas refuses to rule out Chelsea exit this summer

Cesc Fabregas has indicated that he won't rule out leaving Chelsea this summer after missing out on the starting XI in the FA Cup final.

Fabregas was replaced by Nemanja Matic for the starting line-up at Wembley on Saturday with the Spaniard coming on just after the hour mark.

The midfielder had started four of Chelsea's final six league matches and therefore could have surprised to find himself out of the team for the FA Cup final against the Gunners, which his former side won 2-1.

Most (16) of Fabregas's 29 Premier League outings also came from the bench, and this role as a substitute might see the player consider his future.

When asked if a lack of playing time had him thinking about leaving Chelsea, he told the Evening Standard: "Not necessarily, but in football you can never say never.

"Anything can happen but I have always said I feel very, very loved by the fans here and every time I have played I have shown I can play at the top level in this team. It is all about trying to change the manager's decision.

"Of course every player wants to play more, it is in the genes of a winner and I am one of them. I'm here for whatever the team needs and I have shown that during the season."

Despite his role as mainly a substitute this campaign Fabregas has proven himself to be an important player for the west London outfit with the former Barcelona star the club's top passer per 90 minutes played.

The midfielder has also created the most chances per 90 minutes played in the Premier League for Chelsea this season, showing his worth to Antonio Conte's side.