Cesc Fabregas has revealed just how difficult he has found his lack of game time this season, but admitted his situation at Chelsea has helped mature him as a player.
Fabregas was named as the man of the match at Stamford Bridge on Monday night after he created two of Chelsea's goals to help the Blues secure a 3-0 win against Middlesbrough that takes the club to within one victory of the Premier League title.
The Spaniard has been used largely as a substitute this term, although an injury to N'Golo Kante meant he started the game against Boro.
After putting in a scintillating performance against Steve Agnew's side on Monday, Fabregas addressed his situation at Chelsea and admitted he has found not being a regular starter hard but said he has grown as a player and man because of it.
"Many people told me I am not the type of player for Antonio Conte and I should leave but I like challenges," the 30-year-old told Sky Sports.
"I hadn't played every game but I think I have played in the last 20 games.
"We knew what we had to do. Tonight was a big step forward – it was as a difficult game.
"Consistency is key in this league. We obviously won 14 games straight which gave huge confidence to this team.
"It’s not done yet but we need just one more push. We’ve been the best team this year.
"It's been a difficult year for me. I'm used to playing a lot but I feel I have matured a lot."
