It’s fair to say that Payet makes West Ham tick while KDB has inspired the Blues to a number of victories this season with several sparkling individual performances.
So it’s interesting to see who is leading the Premier League stats battle ahead of this weekend’s clash in East London…
Games & Goals
Payet has only recently returned from injury so has played 15 games compared to De Bruyne’s 18 – a small margin but worth considering. KDB has scored five league goals compared to Payet’s six.
Shots
Kevin edges this category with 26 shots to Payet’s 19.
Assists
It’s been well-documented that City’s Belgian midfielder has been one of the most prolific creator of goals in European football over the past 12 months and he has made double the amount Payet has to date with nine compared the Hammers favourite who has four so far this campaign.
Crosses
With both players capable of switching flanks or drifting into a more central role, the crosses count was always going to be an interesting stat – however, with 87, De Bruyne is comfortably ahead of Payet who has 66.
Chances created (including assists)
Payet might argue that three games less could see him pull closer to KDB in this category – but the stats prove the value of both players to their side with Kevin on 65 – just shy of four opportunities created every match and Payet more or less the same with 56 from 15 games.
Passes & Accuracy
Again, De Bruyne leads the duel with 656 passes made during his 18 Premier League matches at an accuracy rate of 77%. Payet has made less passes – 488 – but his accuracy is slightly higher with 81% of his plays finding his man.
Summary
Two productive players having excellent seasons – whoever has the edge on Saturday may inspire their team to victory.
So, KDB wins the statistical battle, but who will come out on top on Saturday? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter, using #cityview.
