Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has revealed that Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas told him he would be fine for the World Cup.

The Spain international is currently sidelined with a broken leg and his World Cup hopes are somewhat clouded but Arteta is confident his fellow countryman will be available to go to South Africa after bumping into Fabregas in their homeland.

"I met Fabregas in Barcelona when he was meeting the same surgeon who did my knee," the Toffees star said.

"He was on crutches but said he should be fine for the World Cup. I hope he is because he has been outstanding this season and deserves to go."