Vilanova: I am to blame if Fabregas is not at his best

Sep 14, 2012 8:05:00 PM

The Barcelona trainer has played down suggestions that the 25-year-old has been playing badly and says he will take responsibility if he cannot get help his charge improve

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has spoken out about Cesc Fabregas' perceived poor form this season, and says he will shoulder some of the blame if he cannot coax better showings out of the midfielder.

The former Arsenal man enjoyed a flying start to his career with the Blaugrana, but has suffered a noticeable dip in performance since the start of 2012.

"He's a world-class player who would get into any team in the world," the 42-year-old was quoted as saying by AS.

"At Barca, it just happens he has to compete with players who have been the best in the world in recent years in their positions.

"I don't agree that Cesc has not been playing well. The coaches must also be held responsible. If I can't get the best out of him, you can't just blame the player - I must be to blame too."

Meanwhile, Vilanova also announced his squad for Saturday's clash at Getafe, with Carles Puyol set to return and Jordi Alba due to miss out with tonsillitis, joining Andres Iniesta and Alexis Sanchez on the injury list.

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