Video: Michael Carrick v Xabi Alonso stats - who's the better player?

Despite struggling with a groin strain, Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso looks set to face Man United at the Bernabeu in the most exciting Champions League tie of the knockout stages.

The 31-year-old Spaniard won the trophy at Liverpool and is likely to come face-to-face with United's own midfield engine Michael Carrick, who'll be doing his best to prove wrong any doubters who suggest he can't perform on the biggest stage.

So who's the best according to the statistics? Have a look at our head-to-head video of their league performances so far this season and let us know who you think is the best in the comments section below...