Zabaleta wants to erase shoot-out pain

Pablo Zabaleta hopes Manchester City clinch a place in the Champions League to erase a bitter memory of playing in Europe.

The Argentinian was part of the Espanyol side which lost on penalties to Spanish rivals Sevilla in the 2007 UEFA Cup final at Hampden Park.

Now Zabaleta is keen to experience the big stage again with City, who face Fulham at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

Reflecting on that night in Glasgow three years ago, he said: "It was horrible as we lost on penalties.

"It is prestigious to play in Europe for your club, though, and our objective at City is the Champions League next season.

"When you hear the music before the game you feel very excited especially as this is my first Premier League club.

"It will be difficult but we have some fantastic players and I am confident with the squad we have."

Carlos Tevez could be key to City's bid for fourth place as he has weighed in with 21 goals this season in all competitions.

Zabaleta has nothing but admiration for his compatriot.

"Carlos' performances have been outstanding," he said.

"He is really important for the team because he always gives 100%.

"I am enjoying the time with Carlos. He is Argentinian like me but not only that, everyone wants to play with the best in the world and he is one of them."

City go into the match on the back of a draw at Sunderland while Fulham continue to bask in the glow of an astonishing Europa League victory against Juventus.

Zabaleta wants nothing less than a victory to keep the pressure on Tottenham, Liverpool and Aston Villa and a repeat of the mindset that helped them beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

He said: "We are solid at home but we need to pick up points on the road and this game is a great one for us.

"This is a big time in the race and if we want to get into the top four we need to win on Sunday.

"We know it will be difficult as Fulham showed against Juventus they have the quality to beat any team. But if we show the same attitude as we did at Chelsea we have a big chance."

Zabaleta has played across the back and in midfield under manager Roberto Mancini but is not complaining.

He added: "Sometimes we have had too many problems with injuries, so sometimes I have played in different roles.

"I try to do my best for the team. My best position is right back but I will play anywhere."