Pablo Zabaleta marked his century of appearances for City by helping earn three more vital points against Blackpool on New Year’s Day.

The Argentinean has become a vital member of the squad since joining the Blues from Espanyol in August 2008, capably stepping up to the plate in defence or midfield as required.

His whole-hearted displays and willingness to fill in for the good of the team have made the 25-year-old a popular figure with fans, and he was pleased to have made it to the 100-game milestone.

“I didn’t know!” he laughs. “Someone told me about three weeks ago that I was getting close but I had not been counting since, so it’s great news. I only played 30 minutes against Blackpool, but it was important and a great win for us.

 

I’m always ready to play in any position, the Manager decides to use me if there is a problem at left back or in the middle, but I always try my best anywhere.

 

“I don’t have a problem with that, I still feel my best position is right back and I am always happier there, but I have to be ready for the team.”

Pablo has seen the expectations and perceptions of the club alter drastically since his arrival, but he has a typically pragmatic view of City’s situation at the start of 2011.

“We are in a fantastic position now, we’re doing a great job. The Premier League is very difficult, in every game you have to play at 100% all the time. If we are to win the title or qualify for the Champions League next season, we will need every point we can get.

“The win over Blackpool gave us three good points, we did not play at our best but it’s important to win even when you don’t play well.

“It’s a difficult time of the year with the so many games from 26th December in a short time. You can see some of the players are tired with so many games, but we have taken a lot of points and this is a time of the season when you can make a big difference. It’s been a great Christmas for us!”