Older than Cesc’s mum, I knew my time was up!

I WAS coming to the end of my Arsenal career when Cesc Fabregas joined from Barcelona, aged 16. Arsene Wenger got me to watch him train. He had never seen a player of that age who could simplify the game so well. While the other youngsters were intent on running with the ball, Fabregas would receive it on the half-turn, take two touches and split defences with his passing. I remember discovering I was older than his mum. It was then I knew the writing was on the wall for me at Arsenal! We played together once in a cup tie at West Brom. It was a joy. He is one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders and will do well at Monaco. Thierry Henry can trust him.