West Ham’s quest to retain their Premier League status for another season continues, with a sequence of results at the weekend leaving the Hammers just three points above the relegation zone with three matches to play.
David Moyes’ side were torn apart by Premier League winners Manchester City at the London Stadium on Sunday, losing 4-1, and Argentina international Manuel Lanzini was criticised by the Scottish manager after the game.
The decision to take Lanzini off in the second half was met by a chorus of boos at the London Stadium and experienced West Ham full-back Pablo Zabaleta has now moved to defend his compatriot from critics – including Moyes himself.
Quoted by The Evening Standard, Zabaleta said:
“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.”
Lanzini, capped three times by Argentina after making his debut last year, is hoping to secure a spot in his nation’s World Cup squad this summer.
