Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany believes it is important to have quality players in all positions.

The Sky Blues have kicked off the season in fine fashion with three wins from three matches without conceding a goal, made possible by the brilliant return to form of Kompany.

The Belgium international has scored twice and had a hand in keeping a trio of clean sheets alongside Eliaquim Mangala but the duo have plenty of competition for places from veteran Martin Demichelis, the promising Jason Denayer and new signing Nicolas Otamendi which Kompany believes is a godsend.

"It is so important in any top team to have quality players all over. The extra competition is good, really good," said the Belgian, who has scored twice this season.

"You don't play for a top team unless you have that. If you look at the schedule, you could end up with 50-60 games and that is impossible for one team. If you want to go for every trophy, we have got Denayer, Demichelis, Otamendi, Mangala and myself. You need that to go for it.

"You go back to what you mentioned before about competition – that is one of the reasons we have started so strong. You can't really afford to do anything wrong during the week leading up to the game. Then during the game, you can't do anything wrong either as there is always someone looking over your shoulder, waiting, who is just as good as you.

"If they are in a better moment and they deserve a chance, they will take your place. You have got to be at the top of your game. This is what you are seeing – a group of guys who know that they need to perform. If they don't, someone else will do it."