Fabregas backs under-fire Chelsea boss Mourinho

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has denied being the leader of a dressing-room rebellion against Jose Mourinho and expressed his full support for the beleaguered manager.

The former Arsenal and Barcelona star was the subject of speculation after a claim that one unnamed first-team player would rather lose than win a game for Mourinho.

The Portuguese’s position is under scrutiny after nine losses in 17 games in all competitions this season, but Fabregas backed his boss, who has continually insisted his players are behind him.

Fabregas wrote on Twitter: “I would like to clarify that contrary to a few reports from some online websites, I am extremely happy at Chelsea and have an excellent relationship with the manager.

“There may be certain individuals from the outside trying to destabilise this club, but I strongly believe that we will bounce back and come good again.”

Chelsea, 15th in the Premier League after six defeats from 11 games, play Dynamo Kiev in Champions League Group G on Wednesday night.