Cesc Fabregas appeared to be denied a stonewall penalty

Cesc Fabregas appeared to be denied a stonewall penalty in the recent 1-0 win over Arsenal.

Even though the decision did not have any influence on the result, it could have been a more comfortable finish for Chelsea had they secured a two-goal advantage. This was yet another win for the blues against Arsenal, but it was against 10 men after Per Mertesacker received a straight red card in the first half. Defender Laurent Koscielny could have received another red card for his foul on Fábregas in the second half. Koscielny clearly appeared to knock down the Spaniard in an effort to win the ball.

Fabregas says that he has been denied a penalty in the past and that it is not surprise to see a similar outcome this time around. The 28-year-old midfielder was playing against his former club where he has great memories. However, he was booed throughout the game by Arsenal supporters, who were keen to show their displeasure at Fábregas joining one of the archrivals. In the past, there have been accusations of Fabregas going down a little too easily. This may have played in the mind of referee Mark Clattenburg. The victory, though, was crucial for Chelsea as it helped them move up to 13th in the table.

"In my opinion, yes. But the referee said no, what can I do?It’s not the first time, it’s not the second, it’s not the third that I was denied a penalty. So I’m not surprised any more. Yes, really. Counting last year. Maybe it’s a coincidence," said Fabregas. The Chelsea midfielder has been in good form for much of the season, but he appears rejuvenated under Guus Hiddink. The Dutchman is so far unbeaten in his second spell as the interim manager at the West London outfit.