Manchester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur: Combined XI

By Scott Stewart | Jan 19, 2017

Jul 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane (18) celebrates after scoring against the MLS All Stars during the first half of the 2015 MLS All Star Game at Dick /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 14: Kyle Walker of Tottenham Hotspur reacts to setting up his side’s third goal of the game during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion at White Hart Lane on January 14, 2017, in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 14: Kyle Walker of Tottenham Hotspur reacts to setting up his side’s third goal of the game during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion at White Hart Lane on January 14, 2017, in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /

RB: Kyle Walker vs. Pablo Zabaleta

Where the choice was easy in goal, the decision between Walker and Zabaleta is much more difficult. Walker is one of the best fullbacks in the Premier League (though, too, Zabaleta) whereas the Manchester City back doubles as captain when Vincent Kompany is away and has a different type of influence on his side.

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Statistically, Walker holds a large advantage due to more appearances (20 compared to 12 for Zabaleta) and is expectedly higher up in blocks, interceptions, tackles, the percentage of duels won, and fouls. However, Walker’s higher appearance total also gives him an advantage as a more consistent option for his club.

The only big bonus for Zabs is that he has completed a higher percentage of his passes, but Walker has attempted an overwhelming amount more.

With Tottenham’s defensive record when Walker is starting, this round goes to England’s first-choice right-back.

Selection: Kyle Walker

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