Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas is hopeful that his match-winning performance during Tuesday’s EFL clash against Leicester City will finally silence his critics.

The former Arsenal and Barcelona star has had a difficult start to the season after failing to start a Premier League game under Antonio Conte.

Conte has looked at other options in the heart of midfield so far and that has led to speculation that Fabregas may leave the club in the next transfer window.

However, he was given the man of the match award following his late charge during the 4-2 extra-time win at Stamford Bridge. Leicester’s Shinji Okazaki scored two first-half goals before Gary Cahill grabbed a goal back in stoppage time.

Cesar Azpilicueta then produced a stunning effort before Fabregas scored two goals inside two minutes and the Spaniard hopes it takes the spotlight off his future.

“I was happy to play first of all from the start, and secondly if I can help the team then fantastic,” he told Sky Sports.

“Hopefully this will shut up a few journalists, a few dailies, a few whatever, who are talking rubbish all the time and focus on what’s important, Chelsea winning.

“I’m focusing on playing well and when I have the chance I’ll show what I can do, because I know what I can do and it’s a lot for this team.”

After his side lost to Liverpool in the league last time out, Fabregas will be hoping to start his team’s next match against Arsenal on Saturday night.

The Gunners are 2.38 to win, the draw is priced at 3.30 while Chelsea are priced at 2.88 with Dafabet.