Chelsea can't afford to lose Cesc Fabregas ahead of Champions League return, says Ray Wilkins

Ray Wilkins says Chelsea can not afford to lose Cesc Fabregas ahead of their Champions League return next season

Ray Wilkins says Chelsea must keep Cesc Fabregas as he is the only man with the guile required to take them to the latter stages of the Champions League.

AC Milan have once again been linked with a move for the midfielder - just as they were in January - after a campaign in which he has made just 10 Premier League starts so far.

Fabregas has claimed he is settled in London and maintains he is focused only on helping Antonio Conte's side winning the Premier League and FA Cup double.

Despite the midfielder's limited opportunities, former Wilkins maintains his old club can not afford to lose the Spaniard.

He told Premier League Daily: "You'll be playing in the Champions League next year and you need that craft, you need that experience of someone like Cesc.

Febregas has made a good contribution at Chelsea this season despite making only 10 Premier League starts

"I can understand Antonio's selection when he picks (Nemanja) Matic and (N'Golo) Kante in front of a back five.

"But with Cesc, it's just job satisfaction and he loves to play football. You can see that when he plays. He's always trying to get on the ball.

"It's not a money issue - he just wants to play. He will get that opportunity next year, I just hope he has the patience.

"For Chelsea to progress to the latter stages of competitions next year, they're going to need the guile and craft I feel only he possesses at Chelsea. You can't let him go."

Celebrating his 30th birthday today, Fabregas is now coming into the last few seasons of his playing career.

Fabregas has often been overlooked for the likes of N'Golo Kante

Regardless, he has two years remaining on his contract with Chelsea and Wilkins is adamant they must do everything they can to retain his services.

He added: "I just love it whether he comes on or whether he starts. For me, he's one of my favourites down there because he's just a pure footballer.

Wilkins can understand why Italian Conte has often selected Kante and Nemanja Matic ahead of Fabregas

"I'd be breaking my neck to get him to stay, to be perfectly honest. This guy can open up defences, not only with short passes.

"He has a fantastic range of passing all over the pitch and he's a valuable member of the squad."