By Gabriel Agbonlahor

3rd Dec, 2022 | 1:44pm

Man City news: Agbonlahor hits back at Gary Lineker's Kyle Walker claim

Man City defender Kyle Walker would be the “perfect” choice at right-back for England in their World Cup round of 16 games against Senegal on Sunday (4 December), according to Gabby Agbonlahor.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England attacker claimed Walker’s pace will be needed to deal with Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr.

The 32-year-old returned after almost two months out with a groin injury as England beat Wales 3-0 in their final group game on Tuesday (29 November).

He was replaced just before the hour mark by Trent Alexander-Arnold as Gareth Southgate managed his return to full fitness.

Kieran Trippier started the other two group games at right-back meaning Southgate has a headache ahead of the game against Senegal.

Gary Lineker claimed on BBC Sport this week (2 December) that Walker should be rested against Senegal so he is sharp for the possible quarter-final with France where he will come up against Kylian Mbappe.

Asked who he thinks should start against Senegal, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “My choice at right-back would be Kyle Walker, for sure, to start.

“Senegal have a lot of pace in their side, especially Ismaila Sarr, he’s very quick. Kyle Walker would be perfect to stop that threat on that side.”

Walker is the oldest and most experienced member of England’s 26-man squad out in Qatar and won his 71st cap in the victory over Wales.

He has played 223 times across all competitions for Man City, scoring six goals and providing 17 assists.

In other news, “Man City are powerless” as an Erling Haaland “suspension” is mooted after a major reveal.