Pablo Zabaleta is backing teammate Carlos Tevez to fire Manchester City into the Carling Cup final ahead of this week's semi against Manchester United. Tevez made himself a cult hero at United with his skill, energy and commitment.

Countryman and team-mate Zabaleta said: "I love Carlos. Everyone loves him wherever he's played - now City fans love him.

"He's fantastic because he gives 100 per cent every game. Everyone knows he has great ability, but when he loses the ball he tries to win it back.

"In Argentina, when we play cards the losers have to do something.

"When Carlos's brother lost a game he did a dance - that's why Carlos does it after scoring.

"Carlos would love to do the dance against United. I wish for a lot of dancing!"