Monday 21 December 2015 13:00, UK
Pedro says Cesc Fabregas will stay at Chelsea and win over the mutinous Stamford Bridge fans.
Fabregas was booed in Saturday's 3-1 home win over Sunderland, the Blues faithful accusing the Spain international midfielder and striker Diego Costa of undermining Jose Mourinho and contributing to the Portuguese's sacking.
Interim boss Guus Hiddink will take charge of the Boxing Day Premier League clash with Watford, as Chelsea continue to seek Mourinho's long-term replacement.
Former Barcelona midfielder Pedro insists Fabregas will prove his loyalty to the west London club as Chelsea bid to turn their poor league form on its head.
"It was difficult for him but he can get through this," Pedro told the Evening Standard, of Fabregas.
"He is strong mentally and very competitive. Cesc is a top player, a very good character in the team, he is a winner and it's good he plays for us.
"I understand why the fans are so upset. It's normal when the team and coach are in this position."
Mourinho convinced Fabregas to join Chelsea for £30m in June 2014, the former Arsenal midfielder helping the Blues claim the Premier League title last term.
Fabregas was forced to deny any part in alleged dressing room revolts earlier this season, but Chelsea's poor form still cost Mourinho his job.
Reacting to Mourinho's Stamford Bridge exit last week, Fabregas tweeted: "Thank you for all you have done for me. I owe you a lot and we will all miss you. Good luck in the future".
There have since been suggestions Fabregas was in fact one of Mourinho's closest allies at the club.
Now Fabregas' team-mates have lent their support to the Spain star, with Pedro admitting the Chelsea squad will all fight to win back the approval of their fans.
"Jose Mourinho is a very good coach," said Pedro. "It is a difficult situation for everyone.
"It was certainly difficult for the players, but it was an important win. The supporters have been good to us this season.
"They have always been with us, together. I don't say anything against them, they are part of us."
