 Partnering Colombian international and fellow newcomer Luis Amaranto Perea in central defence , Pablo contributed to Atlético achieving the third best defensive record in the 2004 – 05 La Liga season ; only Barcelona and Real Madrid conceded fewer goals . The team finished in a mid @-@ table 11th position because they did not score enough , as illustrated by Pablo 's three goals making him their third best league scorer . His performances earned him selection for the senior national team , in a friendly against England in November , and reported interest from major clubs . Both he and Perea were given a pay rise and a contract extension until 2009 . In 2005 – 06 , Pablo was a fixture for both club and country . He and Perea repeated their efforts of the previous season as Atlético finished in 10th place with the fourth best defensive record , and he partnered Carles Puyol at the 2006 World Cup . 
