Fabregas keen to forget

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas is not thinking about football while he is out of action but admits it is 'painful' watching his team-mates from the sidelines.

The midfielder is not expected to return to the first team until April after sustaining knee ligament damage in a collision with Liverpool's Xabi Alonso in December.

And the Spain international, who is continuing his rehabilitation under the guidance of a specialist in Barcelona, has revealed that he is doing his best to avoid football.

"I am not really thinking about football, watching games, following the transfer market, nothing. I am just forgetting about everything to do with football," said Fabregas, speaking in his column in the official Arsenal matchday programme.

"Even my girlfriend is surprised, because it is unusual for me. But to be honest when it comes to football at the moment, I am off it until I can start to get fit again."

But after returning to the Emirates Stadium for the recent FA Cup win over Plymouth, Fabregas admits watching from the stands is tough.

"It is the most difficult part of being injured, not being able to get out there and touch the ball and be there with your team-mates," he added.

"It is a bit painful, but I know I must accept it. All players will go through times like this in their career, and now is my moment to experience it.

"I will just have to stay as positive as I can until I am back playing again.

"I want to relax as much as possible and I am sure I will come back stronger."