Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is excited by the form showed this season by Cesc Fabregas and has likened the midfielder to Michel Platini.

"Fabregas is young and he has to improve. That is all he has to do and let other people judge how good he is," said Wenger. "I have played him since he was 16 so I must believe he is good.

"He has not to worry too much about how other people see him. He must worry more about how he can develop."

Wenger reflected: "His vision is comparable to Platini. It is a compliment.

"He is at the start of his career and we know that Platini has made his career. Cesc has it all in front of him, but he has a vision.

"He will still develop. I remember Platini was more of a striker and Cesc is more of a midfielder.

"He is adding that element to his game, but Platini had more of a striker mentality.

"He could stay quiet for a game thinking 'I will score a goal'.

Cesc is a guy who likes to be at the heart of things. It is not the same position and not the same psychology."

Wenger feels Fabregas has the burning desire to become, like Platini, one of the finest of his generation.

"In the heart of every player is the belief that he will be best player in the world. That keeps him going. It is like that with Cesc and [Steven] Gerrard - everybody.

"Everybody must have that belief - but is more important to make the maximum out of your talent, that is how you gain respect."