Alexander Hleb says he did not make disrespectful comments about Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and team-mate Cesc Fabregas.

The Belarussian international is believed to have set his heart on a move to Barcelona, but says he was 'shocked' at reports which claimed he criticised Wenger and Spannish midfield maestro Fabregas.

He said: "The statements in the papers are definitely not my statements. Cesc is a very good friend of mine and Arsene is one of the persons I respect most."