West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell says he is excited about the arrival of defender Pablo Zabaleta and says the Argentine will have a ‘huge impact’ on the club.
Zabaleta agreed to join the Hammers on a free transfer at the end of the last season after leaving Manchester City, however the move will be formally completed on Saturday once the transfer window officially opens.
Cresswell, who had spoken about the Argentine with fellow England international Joe Hart, said on whufc.com: “Watching him throughout his time with Manchester City, which was nearly a decade, the things Pablo Zabaleta did for that club were fantastic, winning Premier League titles cups and the like.”
He then added: “He will now bring those qualities, his loyalty and experience to West Ham and his presence will only help us, not only his fellow defenders but the whole team.”
The 27-year-old recently made his second cap for England in the 3-2 defeat to France in Paris, and believes that the Argentine defender can help him improve as he looks to break further into Gareth Southgate’s England set-up.
“I spoke to Joe Hart while I was away with England and Joe could not have spoken any higher of him, saying he is a great teammate, a great lad and top professional. His quality is there for all to see, so he is a great addition to the squad. Pablo will not only make his presence felt on the pitch, but his experience will rub off on the young lads around the training ground.”
Cresswell spent last year’s pre-season out injured, as well as much of the start of the Premier League campaign, but is looking forward to getting back into action.
“Now, I want to hit the ground running when I come back for pre-season training, because I want to keep my place in the squad and add to my tally of caps in the future.”
