Teenage Fabregas told Man United treble winner and Premier League legend to retire

The Spanish midfielder goes down as one of the best players in Premier League history having shone for both Arsenal and Chelsea since making his breakthrough for the Gunners in 2004.

Fabregas also played for Barcelona, Monaco and Italian side Como, before officially retiring from playing duties at the age of 36.

Cascarino paid a glowing tribute to Fabregas, least of all for the fact that he didn't shy away from a confrontation.

Speaking on Weekend Sports Breakfast, Cascarino said: "He was known to put his foot in, Cesc Fabregas.

"I was talking to Teddy Sheringham and he played against him right at the end of his career and Cesc was at the start of his.

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"Cesc was giving him a few words and was sledging him on the pitch and telling him to retire!

"I think he was about 17 or 18, but he was quite known for being feisty, but he was fabulously gifted.

"You don't play for Barcelona, Monaco, Chelsea, Arsenal and these clubs and play as well as he did if you're not.

"He always wanted the ball. He could create, assist and could certainly score goals.

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"He was a fabulous footballer, just look at his CV.

"He won the Euros with Spain, he won the World Cup and Premier League title - he didn't win the Champions League but he's had a great career."