Zabaleta demands more from Hammers

Zabaleta demands more from Hammers

After a disastrous start to the season, West Ham’s fortunes have definitely taken a turn and they are now well on their way towards better things.

The Hammers’ made some brilliant signings during the summer transfer window, and good things were expected from the squad. It didn’t turn out that way at all, but Bilic’ men are certainly starting to show what they’re capable of.

One player who signed this summer who was particularly note worthy was Argentine full back Pablo Zabaleta. The veteran signed from Manchester City on a free transfer and has been a consistent performer so far this season. Zabaleta has spoken out about his new side, and has praised Manuel Lanzini in particular for the way he has battled with injuries to make a real difference to the team.

The attacking midfielder has struggled with injuries of late, but was thrown into first-team action from the bench against Swansea at the weekend, and later helped set up the winner against the Swans.



Zabaleta had some hard words for his team, and admits there are still many improvements to be made, but he did praise fellow countryman Lanzini for his work in getting back to fitness.

“I think what we are missing at some points in the game is that creativity that you need to create chances, to keep the ball,” Zabaleta told The Star in an exclusive interview.

“Sometimes we play so quickly that we gave the ball away so this is something we need to improve.

“That was a big difference when Manu came on”

“We’ve been missing Manu so far this season and he’s probably the only player we have to create [chances], and at least to keep the ball a little bit more.

“[He is] a player to play in the hole, between the lines, and that was a big difference when Manu came on.”

Talking about the Hammers in general, Zabaleta insisted that improvements must be made.

“It’s seems like for a few moments we can play good [football], but for some moments in the game we just gave the ball away so cheaply.”

“We need to be more consistent, we need to be a good team from the first minute to the end. With the ball, without the ball, sometimes we were so sloppy in the game and that is no good.”

“We lost Marko [on Friday] with a high fever, he was sick and ill, [Pedro] Obiang out too. It seems like every time we have a problem with some players we cannot keep everyone fit for a long period, everyone being consistent.”

“That is probably the only problem I can see at this moment.”