Matt Le Tissier believes that Tottenham defender Kieran Trippier is better than his Manchester United counterpart.
The two right-backs could line up for their respective teams on Saturday when Spurs travel to Old Trafford for a huge Premier League match.
Trippier, 27, has become a key player for Spurs and developed immensely under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.
The full-back has become an assist king and already has six in just 11 appearances this season.
He likes to bomb down the right flank for Spurs, but is now facing competition from summer signing Serge Aurier for his spot in the starting XI.
Meanwhile, Valencia was transformed into a full-back a few years ago and has not looked back since.
The 32-year-old won United’s players’ player of the season last year and he is playing some of the best football of his career.
Sky Sports pundit Le Tissier was tasked with selecting a best combined XI of Spurs and United players ahead of their clash, with Trippier getting the nod over Valencia.
“At right-back I’m going with Kieran Trippier for one reason and that is quality of delivery in the final third,” he told Sky Sports.
“Antonio Valencia frustrates me with the way he thinks he can cross through people, smashing the ball with his head down.”
OPINION
There is no doubt that Trippier has improved to become a more accomplished full-back, but the offensive side to his game still massively outweighs his defensive ability. He is a perfect example of a modern day right-back that likes to join in with the attack and his assist contribution is crucial to the side. Trippier has managed to force his way into the England squad as a result and there are not many better crosses in the Premier League. However, due to consistency right now Valencia must surely be ranked as a better player than counterpart Trippier. He has developed into a real leader for Mourinho’s side and his consistency over the past couple of seasons in defence is staggering.