Chelsea boo-boys will not force Cesc Fabregas out, says Pedro

Point to prove: Cesc Fabregas will prove his doubters wrong, sas Pedro
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Simon Johnson21 December 2015

Pedro is confident the Chelsea boo-boys will not force Cesc Fabregas to quit Stamford Bridge as doubts grow over Diego Costa’s long-term future at the club.

Fabregas was targeted for abuse by angry fans during the 3-1 victory over Sunderland on Saturday.

It was the first game since Jose Mourinho was sacked as manager on Thursday because of “palpable discord” between him and the squad.

Fabregas, Diego Costa, Branislav Ivanovic and Oscar all had their names booed when they were read out before kick-off. The midfielder was also jeered when substituted late on.

“It was difficult for him but he can get through this,” said Pedro. “He is strong mentally and very competitive.

“Cesc is a top player, a very good character in the team, he is a winner and it’s good he plays for us.

“I understand why the fans are so upset. It’s normal when the team and coach are in this position.

“Jose Mourinho is a very good coach. It is a difficult situation for everyone. It was certainly difficult for the players, but it was an important win.

“The supporters have been good to us this season. They have always been with us, together. I don’t say anything against them, they are part of us.”

It was Mourinho who convinced Fabregas to join from Barcelona for £30m last year and the Spain international played a key role in the club winning the title.

But his form has dipped alarmingly during 2015 and Mourinho left him out of the starting XI in his last two matches in charge against Porto and Leicester.

The 28-year-old denied he was part of a dressing room revolt last month and was the first Chelsea player to post a message of support for Mourinho following his dismissal.

Costa’s future is also in question again after being barracked during Saturday’s match.

He was also booed off the pitch when replaced by Loic Remy in the 76th minute and missed the rest of the match after walking down the tunnel soon afterwards.

The 27-year-old, who wanted to move last summer, was the first player seen to leave the ground — less than 15 minutes after the final whistle.

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Standard Sport understands he has still not adapted to living in London and is missing Spain, where he used to play for Atletico Madrid.

Costa has scored just four goals this term, although Chelsea hope the arrival of caretaker Guus Hiddink and appointment of Didier Drogba as a coach could spark a revival.

Chelsea are negotiating with Montreal Impact, the MLS side Drogba joined after leaving the Blues for a second time at the end of last season.

Although he still has a year left on his contract, the club are confident an agreement can be reached.

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