Chelsea ace Cesc Fabregas admits he hit a career low last season when dumped by manager Antonio Conte.

However, this term Fabregas now managed to force himself into the first-team as Chelsea look to defend their Premier League crown.

He told Marca: “I'm not going to deny it, it was a difficult season.

“I came from playing everything with [Jose] Mourinho and [Guus] Hiddink and then suddenly I was not counted on all of the time.

“Not everyone knows what I went through during those months and there were people who went as far as to say that it was no longer worth it.

“Only my family knows what I have been through."

Asked if he ever considered leaving Stamford Bridge, Fabregas' response was brief.

He explained: “Honestly, no.

“I know what I can give the team and if I can play or not so I decided to stay and fight.

“With Antonio there is no option other than to compete and give 100 percent in every training session and each match."