West Ham United defender Aaron Cresswell has revealed that he is looking forward to playing alongside new summer recruit Pablo Zabaleta next season.
The 32-year-old Argentina international signed for the Hammers on a free transfer after he was released by former side Manchester City at the end of his contract this summer.
New City manager Pep Guardiola did not seem to fancy the defender last season as Zabaleta only made 11 Premier League starts.
Since moving to England in 2008, the full-back has proved himself to be one of the best players to play in the Premier League and he enjoyed great success in Manchester, winning two league titles and two League Cups with City.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Cresswell admitted that he hopes that he can learn a few things from his new teammate and he claimed that Zabaleta would be an excellent addition to the squad next season.
“He will now bring those qualities, his loyalty and experience to West Ham and his presence will only help us, not only his fellow defenders but the whole team,” he said.
“I spoke to Joe Hart while I was away with England and Joe could not have spoken any higher of him, saying he is a great teammate, a great lad and top professional.
“His quality is there for all to see, so he is a great addition to the squad. Pablo will not only make his presence felt on the pitch, but his experience will rub off on the young lads around the training ground.”
Being a full-back himself, Cresswell is one of the players who will no doubt improve his game whilst training with Zabaleta on a daily basis.
The 27-year-old Englishman endured a tough campaign with the Hammers as he missed the opening months of the season due to knee injury.
The defender made his comeback in October and he managed to make 29 appearances in all competitions for West Ham last season.