Fabregas sets City date

The Spaniard damaged knee ligaments against Liverpool last December, and has been working ahead of schedule with his rehabilitation program ever since.

"I am looking at the Manchester City game on 4th April as a realistic comeback date," Fabregas said.

"The most important thing is working on my legs to build them up, which will take another three weeks or so. Hopefully, in five or six weeks I will be back playing."

Arsenal were hopeful to retrieve their influential schemer in next month's away Champions League tie with Roma, but the 21-year-old remained realistic over his comeback.

Fabregas believes his pivotal role in midfield prompts him to take his time before declaring himself fit again for matches.

"The problem with this injury is that it is on my right knee and on the inside of the knee, and of course my game is a lot about passing," he added.

"I touch the ball 120 times per game, so all of the time I am using that leg. I have to make sure it is 100 per cent cured before I come back."