Kompany ready for Rooney battle

Manchester City's Vincent Kompany admits he is relishing the prospect of keeping Wayne Rooney quiet during Monday's Manchester derby.

City host United on Monday in one a game being billed as the title-decider, as a win for City would see them move ahead of United on goal difference with just two games to play, while a loss or draw for Kompany's men would all but hand the Premier League crown to United. Kompany insists he thrives on the pressure of big occasions and cannot wait to take on Manchester United and England striker Rooney at the Etihad Stadium on Monday night. "It's great to play against him," Kompany told the MEN. "I like it and hopefully we will be playing against each other for a long time because it's always a great battle. "He is one of the best strikers in the world, no doubt about that, and usually it's a very strong game, and we have played each other so many times. "I enjoy that in a game. It's not just about the two of us, but it's nice to play against those top players. "He has all the qualities of the top strikers - he is quick, powerful and is a goalscorer. He is also a leader for his team, and that makes him a special player. "That makes it so much more enjoyable for me. I don't think things should come easy - if it's difficult, that makes winning even better."