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It Is 'Vital' For Manchester City To Retain Robinho - Pablo Zabaleta

Argentine urges club to hold onto star striker...

Nov 26, 2009 6:57:40 AM

EPL: De Souza Robinho, Manchester City v Tottenham Hotspur (PA)

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EPL: De Souza Robinho, Manchester City v Tottenham Hotspur (PA)

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Pablo Zabaleta believes that it is "vital" for Manchester City that they retain Robinho, despite the speculation surrounding his future at the club.

The Brazil international has been heavily linked with a move away from Eastlands in January, with Barcelona said to be the likely destination.

But Zabaleta insists that the former Real Madrid player will have a pivotal role to play if Mark Hughes' men are to break into the top four this season.

"I think it's vital that Robinho stays with Man City," he told The Sun.

"He is a player who can give us more quality and he means a lot to his team-mates.

"There is no problem with him or with the other players."

The diminutive forward had a reasonable campaign last season, bagging 15 goals as City finished in mid-table.

Consequently, Zabaleta expects his team-mate to fire on all cylinders this term.

"I think he can do even better," he added.

"Naturally, you always expect more from a player like him because there's a reason why he cost more than £30 million.

"But I hope we can enjoy having him with us for a long time. The truth is, we will achieve our goals faster as a club with players like Robinho here."

The Brazilian has been out of action for the past three months owing to an ankle injury, but is expected to make a comeback against Hull City on Saturday.

Adithya Ananth, Goal.com UK

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