As I have said it numerous times here's what I think they should do if possible:
1) Shield bash to replace kicking.
2) Shield holding on foot on the realistic spot at the middle instead of this system.
3) Shield blocking should be directional like manual blocking. A successfull directional block with shield should do little to no damage to the shield. If the block direction is wrong the shield should then take damage but the hit should be blocked.
4) Pommel strike for 2h and unshielded 1h to replace kicking.
5) Strike with the middle part of the pole for polearms to replace kicking.
6) Archers etc. can live without kicking.
That's my recipe for perfect game