Image:Pablo Zabaleta: New system gives manager options
Pablo Zabaleta believes Manchester City are adapting well to their new three-man defensive system.
Toure frustrated but team-mate feels new tactic provides options
Pablo Zabaleta believes Manchester City are adapting well to their new three-man defensive system.
Zabaleta started alongside Vincent Kompany and Stefan Savic in a 3-4-1-2 formation for the FA Community Shield victory over Chelsea at Villa Park on Sunday.
Roberto Mancini remained committed to the system even after the withdrawal of Savic at half-time - using full-back Gael Clichy instead.
The move was apparently not well received by substitute Kolo Toure, who is reported to have thrown his kit bag in anger after a row with Mancini following the game.
But Zabaleta feels the tactic can give the Premier League champions another option as they aim for success in England and abroad.
"It is another system and another option the manager has," said the 27-year-old Argentina international.
"We have been working with three at the back in pre-season and it worked well."
