Pablo Zabaleta was thrilled to play his part at both ends of the pitch as West Ham United got off the mark for the 2017/18 season with a 2-0 victory over Huddersfield Town on Monday.
The Argentina international featured in a wing-back role, giving him the licence to get forward as well as performing his usual duties in protecting the Hammers’ goal.
It was an all-action performance from Zabaleta, who contributed to a well-earned clean sheet along with supplying two crosses and two key passes to help put pressure on the Terriers’ goal.
He told whufc.com: “I played as a wing-back against Huddersfield. It’s been a long time since I played in that position, but I was happy with the performance.
“I always tried to support in attack and also always try to be in the right position defensively. Overall I think we were solid at the back.
Thank you to the supporters – they were great, they were behind the team and I’m pleased with the performance. We needed to win a game like this
Pablo Zabaleta
“We needed a performance like that as defenders, because in the last three games we conceded ten goals. That wasn’t good enough, so I’m very happy with the performance overall. The whole team did great.
“A clean sheet like Monday’s brings confidence back and hopefully we can continue playing in that way.”
Zabaleta was also delighted to make his London Stadium bow in a winning effort.
He added: “It was great to play my first game at London Stadium. The atmosphere was fantastic – I came here with City last season and was impressed with the atmosphere.
“Of course, it was great to experience it as a West Ham player on Monday. Thank you to the supporters – they were great, they were behind the team and I’m pleased with the performance. We needed to win a game like this.”