Kompany: Sterling Is One Of The Best Wingers In The World

By Joshua Walters

Manchester City captain, Vincent Kompany, has described teammate Raheem Sterling as one of the best wingers in world football after the Englishman’s 13-minute hat-trick inspired the Champions to a 3-1 victory over Watford at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Manchester City failed to break down a resolute Watford defence in the first half but once Sterling gave them the lead a minute after half-time, the floodgates got opened.

Sterling has improved immensely under the tutelage of Pep Guardiola after a difficult first season under Manuel Pellegrini in the 2015/2016 season.

City captain Kompany said: "It's incredible because his first year at City was tough, and then from the moment Pep [Guardiola] came in he just kicked on and went from strength to strength.

"For me, he is one of the best wingers in the world. He's so important for us. To have the ability to unlock defences when they defend with so many bodies is the sign of a top, top, top player.

"These kind of games are much trickier than what people can see from the outside," Kompany added.

"It's mentally demanding because it puts you to sleep that you have so much possession and are bouncing against the same wall.

"You can sometimes fall into a false sense of comfort because you don't have anyone to mark and you have to be super, super careful.

"But we've done it against Bournemouth, against West Ham and we've done it again now. Hats off to the team."

Sterling has played 27 times in the Premier League this season, scoring 15 goals and recording nine assists.

Sterling’s hat-trick on Saturday has moved him to within three goals of Sergio Aguero, who currently leads the race for the Premier League golden boot.