West Ham defender Pablo Zabaleta admits victory at Everton has lifted the pressure across the club.

Victory yesterday dispelled any doubts surrounding manager Manuel Pellegrini's future.

Zabaleta said: “It was crucial to get three points to lift the confidence of the lads, the manager, everyone.

"It has been a tough few months for the manager. Against Everton, we needed to react. We did and we proved to ourselves we have a chance to win games if we play this way.

"We have quality in the team and we hope this is the beginning of something. Victory lifts the spirit."