Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas knows he was targeted by Porto players in this week's Champions League defeat.

It certainly appeared Fabregas was being singled out for some rough treatment, particularly just before the break with tempers boiling over at half-time as the players walked towards the tunnel.

He said: "I felt some really bad challenges but from my part there is no excuse. The referee is the one who must control the game.

"I'm playing in a more advanced position than I am used to. I receive the ball all the time with my back to goal and so it is difficult because I always have someone in my back.

"It is different situation for my game but I am learning a lot and you have to be stronger. It is nice to learn from it."