Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta has praised teammate Yaya Toure for his contribution to the side this season.

The Ivorian set up Edin Dzeko before scoring himself on Sunday as City closed the gap on leaders Liverpool with a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace.

Zabaleta believes that Toure's return from injury could now help to propel the Blues towards a second Premier League title in three years.

"You always need big players in the team. I think Yaya showed one more time that he's one of the main players of this team," the Argentine is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"He's having a great season; one assist, another goal, fantastic for the team and great to see Yaya back."

City continue their title challenge on Saturday evening when they face Everton at Goodison Park.