New West Ham deal for Pablo Zabaleta highlights failure of Ryan Fredericks

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Pablo Zabaleta is set to extend his stay at the London Stadium by triggering a clause based on the number of appearances he makes this season and, even if that does not happen, the club may take up an option from their side to do so regardless.

The Daily Mirror say that the club have been impressed by the 33-year-old in his second full season at the club since joining for free from Manchester City.

However, extending his spell in east London does reflect poorly on one man: Ryan Fredericks. Signed in the summer from Fulham, many expected him to surpass the Argentinian and become first choice.

Several months into his West Ham career, that is yet to be the case as the 26-year-old has suffered with injuries and, when fit, largely been restricted to cup football.

West Ham bosses will be aware that they cannot rely on Zabaleta forever and the longer they do so, the higher the risk of him fading and losing his consistency. Fredericks was supposed to provide an alternative but looks not to have done so.

Zabaleta can be pleased with his strong form this campaign, but Manuel Pellegrini may have expected more from his new addition and be taking this measure to protect the club and guarantee a convincing option at right-back.