It’s Spain v Germany on Sunday to decide who will win Euro 2008. The former secured their place in the final with a comprehensive 3-0 beating of Russia, with Cesc Fabregas coming off the bench in the second half to magnificent effect. The Arsenal midfielder has certainly strengthened his case for a place in the starting line-up, although we know what a stubborn mule the national team coach is.

Nevertheless, the BBC reports that Luis Aragones had some kind words for Fabregas, who assisted two of Spain’s three goals and looked every bit the world-class player that Arsenal fans know and love.

“With Cesc we had another midfielder and it was difficult to control,” stated Aragones.

“I know how well he can perform, he is a great player like others in our squad.

“It’s better for numbers and pressure and that is how Xavi scored his goal. The point is to make them feel free.

“Cesc is 21, he and other players have acquired the experience that you might have of an older player.”

I bet Arsenal fans watching Thursday night’s match must have been delighted to see their man play so impressively, especially with all the talk about Andrei Arshavin before the game. It appears that David Villa might miss Sunday’s final, something which would pave the way for Fabregas to earn his first start of Euro 2008 - in the final!