The 3 key battles as Manchester City take on Tottenham in the Premier League

Nicolas Otamendi vs Harry Kane

If Nicolas Otamendi defends like he did against Everton, than Harry Kane will have a field day at the Etihad Stadium this evening.

The England international is in red-hot form after his hat-trick against West Brom last weekend, which took his tally to six goals in four Premier League games, and 13 for the season.

His ratio of 105 minutes per goal is the best of any player who has netted over ten goals in the league this season, which means that Otamendi, as well as the rest of the City defence, will have to be at their best against him.

The Argentine international is the senior defender in that City side with Vincent Kompany out injured, so it’s up to him to take the lead in marshalling Kane and organising the back four.

Otamendi was one of many City defenders that underperformed against Everton – a much-improved display is needed today if they are to get the better of in-form Tottenham.