Fabregas will help me - Vela Monday, July 14, 2008
Striker Carlos Vela is ready to wholeheartedly throw himself into the Gunners' line-up, but admits he might need a helping hand from Cesc Fabregas - a player he rates highly...
Striker Carlos Vela is raring to go in an Arsenal shirt, having finally landed the work permit in May that will make his Premiership dream come true next term.
Injury-plagued Robin van Persie is yet to prove he can last the distance for Arsene Wenger's side. Fitness and sharpness concerns are also sure to follow Eduardo on his return and Emmanuel Adebayor is currently embroiled in one of the summer's many long-running transfer sagas. Thus, 19-year-old Vela is ready to profit.
However, the starlet admits he'll be looking to Cesc Fabregas for advice and inspiration as he takes the first tentative steps on his Emirates adventure.
Vela told Notimex: "Cesc Fabregas was sensational recently as Spain won Euro 2008. It will be a good experience to work with him in the squad and I hope he will help me out in the early months.
"I see Fabregas as my idol."
Vela has plied his trade in Spain since first committing to Arsenal in 2005. He insists his spells with Celta Vigo, Salamanca and Osasuna were merely stepping stones on his way to North London and the Premier League.
"My stay in Spain helped me to make the jump to the Premier League," he admmitted. "Now, I am stronger on the field and more mature.
"I am not scared of the Premier League - I will train hard and fight for a chance in the Arsenal squad. I want to be a warrior for the team.
"I'm not thinking about failure. I'm happy to be here and I just want to help the team."
