Football
Jonathan Smith, Manchester City correspondent 7y

Pep Guardiola wants Man City fans to 'support us more than ever' vs. WBA

MANCHESTER -- Pep Guardiola says he needs the Manchester City fans to make Tuesday night's game against West Bromwich Albion a big night as they try to secure Champions League football.

City need four points to be certain of a top-four finish and Guardiola is desperate to collect the first of those three against West Brom ahead of City's trip to Watford on Sunday.

It also promises to be an emotional night with City fans saying farewell to cult hero Pablo Zabaleta on his last appearance at the Etihad Stadium. The defender has confirmed he is leaving at the end of the season after nine years with the club, and Guardiola has called on supporters to make it a special occasion.

"His impact here was amazing, he was the first player to come here and he helped make this club what it is right now," Guardiola told a news conference.

"That is why he deserves the best, last game here at home and hopefully all the fans come here tomorrow to the Etihad Stadium, first of all to support us more than ever, especially in the moments we are in trouble because against Tony Pulis teams there will always be moments of trouble and we play for a lot of important things.

"Maybe it is the first time I announce it but they have to come to support more than ever and to to express gratitude for one of the most important players in the history of Manchester City."

Guardiola discounted suggestions that West Brom have given up on their season despite the Baggies taking just two points from their last seven games.

Chelsea had to wait until eight minutes from the end before clinching the Premier League title at the Hawthorns last Friday with a 1-0 win and Guardiola reckons they will be just as keen to spoil City's European hopes.

"They are professional and are going to play to win,' Guardiola added. "I don't think teams from Tony Pulis' history, Stoke and now West Brom, play a game thinking it doesn't matter.

"We play for a lot of things, and it will be a real final for us. We are going to be ready for this game."

City will have John Stones back in the squad for the game but Fabian Delph's season looks like it is over after picking up a knock in training.

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