Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti has described his admiration for Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas ahead of tomorrow's Champions League round of 16 clash between the two sides.
The Ligue 1 club travel to west London with a one goal advantage, thanks to Edinson Cavani's winner at the Parc des Princes, aiming to eliminate their Premier League counterparts.
Laurent Blanc's side dominated possession in the first leg three weeks ago and Verratti is adamant he and his team mates will attempt to do the same at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues tend to put less emphasis on possession than their opponents but Verratti is keen to replicate the playing style of Fabregas, who progressed through Barcelona's famous youth academy.
"I watch a lot of football," he told the Guardian. "If I was to pick a player that I identify with in this Chelsea team it would be Cesc Fabregas.
"He makes you see what the game is about, he breathes football and you can tell by his way of playing how much he loves it.
"He was already a great player when I got started, so I've watched him a lot. He's an example who I try to follow," added the Italy international.
Verratti's praise of Fabregas highlights his preference for a passing style but the 23-year-old also believes the physicality of Diego Costa is a valuable weapon to be able to call upon.
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"I prefer entertaining football but having a personality like Costa in your team is always good.
"He uses warfare to win the games but I know him, he's a good guy who transforms when he comes on the pitch."
