Wenger hails Fab’s new power

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hailed the increased physical power of his captain Cesc Fabregas. The 22-year-old Spanish midfielder has enjoyed a stellar season, scoring 18 goals at a rate of one goal every two games. "I believe he is more relaxed," commented Wenger on Monday. "There is less tension in his finishing. You feel that before he wanted to force the chance and now he is more relaxed. Also he has gained more physical power. You can see he resists much more the runs of his opponents and he is more powerful in his runs. Also I believe the change in formation has had an impact as well. He has more freedom to join in now." Arsenal play Barcelona in a first leg Champions League quarterfinal on Wednesday, with Fabregas hoping to shake off a knee injury to play against his former club.