Manchester City’s captain Kyle Walker showed just how vital he will be in his team’s treble defence against Tottenham. The full-back returned to form against his former team. His performance resembled that of the City captain at his best and that could be vital as Pep Guardiola’s side chase their piece of history.
In City’s 3-2 win against Newcastle before their winter break, it could be argued that Walker was at fault for both of the host’s goals. His positioning was just off allowing Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon to get in behind. Both goals were products of two world-class finishes but the problem began earlier than that.
Against Tottenham, there would be no repeat from Walker or the City defence. Though the same high defensive line was employed by Pep Guardiola’s team every player did their job to prevent such counterattacks hurting the treble winners. City’s captain was a key part of this. His performance against Tottenham was a marked improvement from the display he put in against Newcastle. When Kyle Walker is on form Manchester City are an infinitely better team. Friday night’s win and City’s defensive performance was more evidence of this.
Kyle Walker will have a crucial role to play as Manchester City chase history. They will be seeking to win back-to-back trebles which would be an unparalleled achievement. To achieve this Pep Guardiola’s side will need the Kyle Walker we saw against Tottenham on Friday night. His pace at the back and experience are crucial to the treble winners.
A chance at history is on offer for Manchester City
In an interview published on mancity.com the City captain is well aware of the historic opportunity on offer this season. Kyle Walker is well aware of the high expectations on Pep Guardiola’s side. When asked about that Walker said: “We have to believe and we are in this together. The expectations for us as a team have gone massively up. We have to take it as a compliment. If we’re in all competitions, we can fight for it. We’re still fighting on all fronts – you can still see the hunger, not from just the players but the fans as well. We’re wearing that famous gold badge which means we are the best team in the world.”
If Manchester City is to create history they’ll need Kyle Walker at his best. Based on his performance against Tottenham and his interview post-game the City captain appears ready for the challenge.
