Pablo Zabaleta backs West Ham star Manuel Lanzini amid David Moyes criticism

Hooked: Lanzini was substituted after his error led to Fernandinho's goal
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Vaishali Bhardwaj30 April 2018

Pablo Zabaleta has backed Manuel Lanzini to play a crucial role in West Ham's fight against relegation despite David Moyes criticising the Argentine playmaker for his lack of defending in the build-up to Manchester City's fourth goal at the London Stadium.

Lanzini made his first start since March 10 for the visit of Pep Guardiola's side on Sunday after recovering from a knee injury, but was taken off by Moyes in the second half - just two minutes after Fernandinho had scored City's fourth goal.

West Ham fans reacted to Lanzini being hauled off with a chorus of boos, which Moyes later said he accepted but then insisted his decision was vindicated by the fact the 25-year-old did not do enough defensively to prevent City from netting their fourth.

Despite the criticism from the West Ham manager, however, Zabaleta has backed Lanzini to be a vital player for the Hammers as they look to secure enough points in their final three games of the season to ensure their Premier League safety.

In Pictures | West Ham vs Manchester City | 29/04/2018

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When asked about Lanzini's importance to the West Ham side, Zabaleta told Standard Sport: "He's probably one of our most creative players in the team.

"It hasn't been a good season for him in terms of injuries but, of course, to have Manu back in the team is good news so hopefully he can help us to get some points in the next game."

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