Sterling’s one of best in world - Kompany

Vincent Kompany is convinced Raheem Sterling is now one of the best players in the world.

Sterling hit a 13-minute hat-trick on Saturday as Manchester City took another step towards defending their Premier League title with a 3-1 defeat of Watford at the Etihad Stadium.

There was an offside debate over his first goal and his second was a tap-in, but his third highlighted his skill as he weaved into the area, cut back and fired past Ben Foster.

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.”

Sterling’s quickfire treble shifted what had been a frustrating game decisively in City’s favour. As in their two previous games, the score was 0-0 at half-time and City, despite dominating possession, needed to work hard for openings.

“These kind of games are much trickier than what people can see from the outside,” said Kompany, who has featured in City’s last five games.

“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.”

City boss Pep Guardiola was more measured in his praise for Sterling, 24, who has now scored 20 goals for club and country this season.

“He scored three goals, we’re delighted, but he can do better,” said Guardiola. “The first half was not his best performance.”