Paul Merson hits out at Cesc Fabregas over Chelsea form

Paul Merson has criticised Cesc Fabregas for his below-par performances for Chelsea so far this season.

Fabregas, like many of his Chelsea colleagues, has struggled to produce consistent form for the Blues this term during the west London club’s stuttering start to the season.

Chelsea are languishing in 16th place in the Premier League table and just a point above the relegation zone as they prepare to host Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on Saturday following Jose Mourinho’s sacking.

And Merson feels that former Arsenal captain Fabregas has been nowhere near his best this season after helping to inspire them to the Premier League title in style last term.

Asked about Fabregas’ form, Merson told Sky Sports: “He is not there. He has been so disappointing.

“We’re talking about a top, top drawer player who should be winning games for Chelsea, taking the game by the scruff of the neck.

“He has not got anywhere near his standard, not even close. I can’t remember a game this season where he has been outstanding, or even for an hour of one game.”

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Fabregas has managed to notch up just two assists in the Premier League for the west London club so far this season and was a second-half substitute during the 2-1 loss to Leicester City on Monday night at the King Power Stadium.