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West Ham United face a tough test on Wednesday as they travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on the reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.
The hosts will be heavy favourites, but the Hammers’ record against ‘big six’ opposition this season – they’ve beaten Manchester United and Arsenal and drawn against Liverpool and Chelsea – ought to give Manuel Pellegrini confidence that his team can get something against his former club.
If the Irons are to pull off a shock result though, the Chilean’s team selection and tactical approach must be perfect.
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On the chalkboard
One mistake that Pellegrini cannot afford to make is starting right-back Pablo Zabaleta. The veteran 34-year-old defender may have a history with City – having spent nearly a decade in light blue earlier in his career – but he should not feature against them from the beginning this week.
The 58-cap Argentina international started against Premier League strugglers Fulham last time out and his flaws were highlighted then. If the 65-year-old were to put his faith in Zabaleta again against Pep Guardiola’s side then he would be punished far more severely.
Instead, 26-year-old Ryan Fredericks must get the nod. The Englishman’s pace and energy should make him more of a match for City’s wide men.
A part to play
However, that is not to say that Zabaleta certainly won’t have a role to play at the Etihad. Should the east London club find themselves clinging onto a lead or still on level terms with only a third of the game to go then the Argentine should be introduced to the field to work alongside Fredericks.
As City go in search of a goal in this situation, they’ll attack heavily on the flanks. By doubling up defensively in these areas, West Ham stand a greater chance of withstanding this onslaught.
In this role, Zabaleta’s experience and leadership could play a vital role for the Hammers.
