Merida dismisses Cesc comparison

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Comparisons between Merida and Fabregas are inevitable, with both midfielders having been brought up through the youth ranks at Barcelona before moving to Arsenal as youngsters. However, 17-year-old Merida was keen to play down any similarities, pointing out Fabregas was now established as one of Arsenal's leading stars.

"Many people have mentioned it to me, but Cesc is 20 years old and has played in a Champions League final and a World Cup," said Merida. "I am Fran Merida and I come here with a lot of ambition, right now there is nothing to compare between the two of us."

Merida, who has joined Sociedad on loan until the end of the season, believes his move from Spain to England in 2006 has been an education.

"As a person you mature, and more so if you go on your own. I think that is has been a good experience, and I have learned as much on the pitch as off it," said Merida, who could make his debut in this weekend's Basque derby against Alaves.