Key battles

Son Heung Min. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Bacary Sagna. PHOTO: REUTERS
Eric Dier. PHOTO: REUTERS
Kevin de Bruyne. PHOTO: REUTERS
Hugo Lloris. PHOTO: ACTION IMAGES
Sergio Aguero. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Match points: Tottenham v Man City

Son Heung Min v Bacary Sagna

Sagna, who used to play for Spurs' hated rivals Arsenal, can expect a hot reception if he starts. He should brace himself for a difficult game, too. Quick, persistent, skilful and a sharp shooter, Son has begun his Tottenham career brilliantly. Spurs were criticised for failing to sign a specialist striker but he is compensating.

Eric Dier v Kevin de Bruyne

Defender Dier has found a regular berth and earned a new contract while operating as an anchor midfielder. Halting de Bruyne represents his biggest job. The £54 million (S$117 million) Belgian has scored on both his City starts. He has shown a capacity to run the game, providing penetrative passes for runners from the flanks.

Hugo Lloris v Sergio Aguero

Lloris saved a penalty from Aguero last season, preventing him from scoring five goals in a game. The Argentinian's only strike in open play this season came against Chelsea, proving he can deliver big goals. Spurs have kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league, but this will be a true test if Lloris is being shielded better.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 26, 2015, with the headline Key battles . Subscribe