Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas has made a surprise confession regarding the best midfielders he has played alongside.

The 28-year-old Spaniard was asked in an interview with Football Daily who he believes are the best central midfield players he has operated next to and the answer was somewhat unpredictable.

Fabregas says he rates current Arsenal veteran Mathieu Flamini and former Gunners star Gilberto Silva ahead of famed ex-Barcelona teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

"I had two years playing next to Flamini," said Fabregas. "He covered me and he covered so much ground.

"If I say Iniesta or Xavi, it is fantastic for the eyes, but it is not real for me. If I had to choose one, it would be between Gilberto Silva and Flamini."