Kyle Walker rates his chances against Kylian Mbappe in World Cup

The Manchester City defender is set go up against Kylian Mbappe for the fifth time in his career on Saturday.

England full-back Kyle Walker won’t underestimate his own ability when facing France striker Kylian Mbappe in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final clash.

Mbappe has been one of the tournament’s star performers, scoring five goals in four games for France. He leads the Golden Boot race and is also heading the charge in Les Bleus’ bid for a second World Cup title in a row.

“I do understand what I need to do and that is to stop him,” Walker said on the possibility of facing Mbappe at a press conference.

“It is easier said than done, but I don’t underestimate myself. I have played against some great players at Man City and England, I treat it as another game, I take extra care and give him the respect he deserves, but not too much respect.”

Walker ready to count on his experience

The 32-year-old has crossed paths with Mbappe four times so far in his club and international career. They first met in a friendly between France and England in 2017, which the French won 3-2. Their other three encounters have been in the Champions League for Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain respectively.

“Obviously it is always going to help because I’ve played against him a number of times now with Manchester City,” Walker added on Mbappe.

“He is a fantastic player in great form. It is not going to be an easy task, but as a professional footballer you want to play against the best and I think he is one of the best if not the best in the world at the moment.”

According to Bet365, France are the slight favorite going into this World Cup quarter-final tie. Tipping the French to win returns odds of 2.40 at the time of writing, which suggests they have a 42% chance of beating England.