Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has baulked at commenting directly on Wayne Rooney's contract saga at Manchester United.

But he does rise to the bait when fans question players' loyalty.

He told The Sun: "That is a bit harsh. Loyalty is a two-way street. Clubs are the first not to offer new contracts if you are not performing and are the first to try and sell you if you aren't delivering or are too old.

"The game is littered with players desperate to stay at their clubs but the clubs no longer want them. Loyalty seems to be a balance where both sides need each other."