• Premier League

Zabaleta: Off-field problems make Tevez stonger

ESPN staff
April 3, 2013
Carlos Tevez has won the Premier League title with both Manchester clubs © PA Photos
Enlarge

Pablo Zabaleta has revealed how Carlos Tevez's off-field problems spur him onto better things on the pitch as Manchester City prepare for the derby with rivals United.

City make the short trip to Old Trafford to take on United on Monday knowing that they will almost certainly be relinquishing their Premier League title back to Sir Alex Ferguson's side in the coming weeks.

United have a 15-point advantage at the top of the table with just eight games remaining.

Tevez is in a unique position, having won the championship with both clubs. The Argentine striker won back-to-back titles with the Red Devils in 2008 and 2009 before moving to the Etihad and winning his third Premier League winners' medal in 2012.

He will appear at Macclesfield Magistrates' Court on Wednesday to face charges relating to several alleged motoring offences after he was arrested four weeks ago and, if found guilty, is expected to be given community service. The maximum sentence is six months in prison.

Zabaleta was quoted as saying in the Sun: "It doesn't seem to bother him. Roberto Mancini said last time he hopes the police will stop him again because it looks like it is a great motivation for him.

"It was just a small mistake by Carlos. He knows now he has to be calm otherwise he is going to be in trouble. Now he has got some friends to bring him to Carrington every day.

"Every time we play against United it is a particularly special game for Carlos. He has always done well against them. He was a United player once and I've seen him play with great passion against United.

"It will be a special day for Carlos and a special day for the team."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close