Cesc Fabregas enjoying sense of freedom in new Chelsea system

The Spain international impressed in a 3-5-2 formation as the Blues claimed a 3-1 win against Newcastle on Saturday and he feels the switch is working for the Londoners

The 30-year-old is back in favour at Stamford Bridge and admits he was concerned for his future at the club at times last season (Getty)

Cesc Fabregas is relishing a change made to the system by Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte and the freedom it affords him.

The Spain international impressed in a 3-5-2 formation as the Blues claimed a 3-1 win against Newcastle on Saturday and he feels the switch is working for the Londoners.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Tuesday night's final Champions League group match against Atletico Madrid, Fabregas said: "It allows me to get into areas where I can be close to Eden (Hazard) and Alvaro (Morata) and create things.

"You could say freedom. We know the boss likes to have discipline in our system and game. In this way, we cover the pitch well. It's working well."

The 30-year-old is back in favour at Stamford Bridge and admits he was concerned for his future at the club at times last season.

"I would be lying if I said I wasn't worried - maybe worried is not the right word," he said.

"I wasn't part of his (Conte's) initial plans. You can give up or put your head down, be humble and work hard and show him he is wrong.

"You must adapt and be always ready in training.

"Physically... I wouldn't say better than ever, but in the last few years I feel the fitness. I had to adapt myself, especially defensively. It's not my biggest strength.

"Last season the boss might not have trusted me to play in a 3-4-3 but he does now."

Chelsea booked their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League after beating Qarabag in Baku last time out, but Atletico need to win to have any hope of progressing.

PA