Silva suggests Fabregas stay

Silva: Fabregas should stay

Gilberto Silva believes former Arsenal team-mate Cesc Fabregas should remain at the club rather than join Barcelona.

Fabregas had been the subject of a long-standing interest from Barcelona, who he left to move to Arsenal at the age of 16.

Silva spent six years with the Premier League club and played alongside the Gunners skipper as he was developing his game as a youngster.

The 33-year-old has since moved onto Greek outfit Panathinaikos and Fabregas has become one of the world's most revered footballers.

The loss of the Spaniard to Barcelona would be a big blow to Arsene Wenger's team, according to Silva, and the Brazilian feels the 23-year-old would be better off staying at the Emirates.

When asked if Fabregas should stay at Arsenal, Silva told Sky Sports News: "I think so."

He went on: "I hope he stays. He is a big person and must ask himself and think very carefully if he has to go or not.

"But of course the final decision (is something) he has to do. In case this situation happens, it will be a big blow for Arsenal.

"But let's wait and see."

Silva is currently on international duty with his Brazilian team as they prepare to launch their bid for a sixth world title.

They take on North Korea on Tuesday with their preparations for the clash clouded by criticism of manager Dunga's style of play.

Dunga has instilled a more pragmatic approach to the Samba nation's football in contrast to their traditional free-flowing ways but Silva is nonplussed by the matter and revealed that spirits in the Brazil camp were high.

He added: "Of course, in our squad everyone is happy to be here and to represent our country.

"But we know our responsibility in the game and what it means to all of us what it means to wear this shirt."