
Casc Fabregas was handed the Arsenal captaincy recently after William Gallas shamed himself in the press, hinting at a dressing room rift instigated by a 25-year-old troublemaker, thought to be Dutch hitman Robin van Persie (who denies the allegation).
The last thing the 21-year-old Spaniard would want to do, then, would be to become embroiled in another tabloid frenzy.
However, that's what happened when he admitted his love for Serie A giants Milan, fuelling rumours that he wanted to bolt to San Siro. He was quoted as saying in La Gazzetta that he "would undoubtedly pick the Rossoneri" if his Emirates career went belly-up.
Now, the Gunners have published a short statement from the mouth of their new skipper, wherein he plays down his Milan desire.
He told Arsenal's official website: "It is true that I said I admire Milan for their rich history and the way they play football, but that is as far as the story goes.
"I am honoured to be wearing the captain’s armband for Arsenal and I am 100 per cent committed to this club. My future is here."
In any case, it could be wise for Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger to gag his young side for a time, lest they talk their way into any more hot water.