EPL 2016/17 - Liverpool vs Manchester City - Combined XI

Defenders

Gael Clichy has been a regular starter for City this season

Right back - Nathaniel Clyne

Clyne has been a prominent figure for the Reds since his arrival from Southampton and has gone on to play every minute of the Premier League this season. City, on the other hand, have tried Bacary Sagna and Pablo Zabaleta at right back but Pep still has reservations with regards to the backline. Clyne is an obvious upgrade on his City counterparts and is arguably the best right back in the league.

Centre back - Nicolas Otamendi

Pep has tried and tested many options in his back five but one player has remained consistent, the Argentine, Otamendi. The centre-back had a torrid first season and always seemed to be error prone but has improved his positional sense and has adapted to the manager's demands.

He gets his place in this lineup as Joel Matip misses out with an ankle injury.

Centre back - Dejan Lovren

Lovren, just like Otamendi, was criticised for his huge transfer fee and for not being able to justify that on the field. He is a player who has revived his Liverpool career under Klopp. The Croatian has handled oppositions decently this season and has always played well in the big games. He will be up against Sergio Aguero and has his task cut out.

Left back - Gael Clichy

James Milner has been brilliant in his new position and looks like he has played in that position since his Leeds days. But Clichy, who often goes under the radar, is a crucial cog in City's team. He is an underrated player but is starting to repay Guardiola's faith in him. Milner would struggle against the pace of Raheem Sterling or Jesus Navas and with Clichy being defensively more equipped, he gets the place just ahead of the veteran Milner.