Cesc Fabregas says Barcelona have been "Lionel Messi and 10 more"

Cesc Fabregas, who joined Chelsea in the summer, hailed Lionel Messi, one of his best friends in the Barcelona dressing room, and explained that the Argentine has great relationships with everyone. 

"Barcelona this season is Messi and ten more," said Cesc to Marca. "He has saved the team in many games."

The Blues star, who scored the second goal as Jose Mourinho's team beat Stoke on a windy monday night to go three points clear at the top of the league. 

Cesc added: "As a cule, I think that Messi deserves to retire at Barca, for all he has given. He has changed the history of the club. 

"Now, as a companion and friend, I would certainly love to have Leo by my side [at Chelsea]."

However, Cesc believes that very few clubs could pry Messi away from Barcelona. 

"He would not be lacking suitors but you could count on one hand the teams that could afford him."