Source: Telegraph
Pablo Zabaleta signs new Manchester City contract
The no-nonsense right-back has become a popular figure at Eastlands since becoming one of the first players to join Mark Hughes' overhaul of the club in the summer of 2008, signing from Espanyol. [LNB]The Argentina international has racked up 50 performances for the club in the that time, despite facing strong competition for a starting place from Micah Richards, not least in part because of his ability to play as a holding midfielder when required. [LNB] Related ArticlesManchester City v Sunderland: match previewBruce: Manchester City must give Hughes timeBarry: City focused after dressing-room angerManchester City make approach for Guus HiddinkThe Daily Bung: What have City bought for £200m?Lescott out for two monthsThe 24 year-old revealed he has quickly adapted to life in England, and has been enjoying a ribbing he is receiving at his local fish and chip shop as the anniversary of his only goal - a winner against Wigan last January - approaches. [LNB]"The guy at our fish shop always says it's easy to remember my last goal - it's the only one," he said.[LNB]"But I only used to score once a season in Spain and Argentina - my first job is always to defend, although I'm happy to play where the manager wants in the best league in the world. [LNB]"My English lessons are finished now, I will continue to learn with my team-mates at Carrington. I'm delighted to sign because I'm so happy playing for Manchester City and I love living here." [LNB]With injuries beginning to hit in City's defence, Zabaleta is looking forward to playing a key role over the festive period. [LNB]"We play in front of over 40,000 passionate fans. It's so different from Spain," he said. [LNB]"We need to aim for nine points from these next three games to keep fighting for a good position. If we play well enough we can get into the top four. We have the players for big things." [LNB]
