Manuel Pellegrini shared that he thought it was impossible for West Ham defender Pablo Zabaleta to play seven games in December ahead of his side facing Newcastle United on Saturday.
The Hammers boss in his press conference ahead of the showdown with the Magpies shared that it was a serious issue for his side’s defence to be without Zabaleta and they need to find a solution.
“It is impossible for him to play seven games in December so we need to see what we will do in that position,” said Pellegrini in his press conference on Thursday, as quoted by Football.London.
“Being without him though is a serious thing for our defence.”
The Hammers’ other right back, Ryan Fredericks, is believed to be out for the rest of 2018 (Source: BBC) after picking up an injury during the 1-1 draw with Huddersfield Town.
OPINION
It seems Pellegrini believes it is an impossible ask of Zabaleta to play every game in the Hammers’ December schedule and you can understand why he is already concerned about having to rest him. The 33-year-old full-back is one of the Hammers’ most consistent performers and regularly is a reassuring presence at the back. However clearly Pellegrini already believes that is too much to ask of Zabaleta’s ageing legs to play so many games in quick succession. The main issue regarding the veteran not being available is the fact, there isn’t obvious cover for him at this time. With Fredericks ruled out with an injury for December, it’s a mystery who can fill Zabaleta’s shoes. Normally the manager is being dealt a headache regarding the position of left-back but it seems his issues are now spreading to both flanks, at least for the festive season. It seems Pellegrini is going to insist that he gets a new right-back as soon as the January window opens.
