Zaba hails hit-man Aguero

PABLO Zabaleta hopes there is plenty more to come from Sergio Aguero after his fellow Argentinian's double in Manchester City's 4–0 defeat of Crystal Palace.

The prolific striker struck either side of half–time and set up David Silva as title–chasing City eased to three Barclays Premier League points in the snow at the Etihad Stadium.

It was the latest encouraging sign that Aguero's form is returning after injury.

The 27 year old produced two ineffectual performances on his return, but has now scored four in his last five outings and, with City fighting on four fronts, momentum could be building at a critical time.

"He is one of the main players for the team – we need the best Sergio Aguero week-in, week-out," said right–back Zabaleta, who is also finding his way back to fitness after a knee injury.

"There is a still a long season to go and this is a crucial period for the team. We know we are involved in the four competitions.”

City made a sluggish start against a Palace side without a goal in their four previous league games.

Damien Delaney headed an early chance at Joe Hart and shot over after a mistake by the goalkeeper and Scott Dann also had a free header.

But once City had taken the lead through Fabian Delph's long–range strike in the 21st minute – for which Wayne Hennessey should have done better – they didn’t seem in any danger. Aguero doubled the lead before the break and then tapped in a third after 68 minutes.