Cesc Fabregas says Spain will need to pay special attention to Andrei Arshavin when the two nations meet in the Euro 2008 semi-finals on Thursday.

The Russia forward been one of the stars of Euro 2008, scoring two goals to help his team reach the last four. However, he was suspended for the opening two group matches in Austria and Switzerland - including the 4-1 defeat by Spain and although Farbregas says he knew little about Arshavin at the start of the tournament, he admits that is no longer the case.

"I saw him [against Holland], he's a good player" Fabregas said. "I didn't know him before but he looks good so we have to be careful. We know it will be a completely different game. They have quality, they are competitive, young, and I think it will be very very tough."

Fabregas, who scored the winning penalty as Spain finally overcame Italy in Vienna, admitted he was relieved to have played his part. "The goal became a bit small when I looked up but fortunately for me I scored," he said. "It was the winning one, but if my team-mates hadn't scored before and if (Iker) Casillas didn't save two it could have been different."