Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany was delighted for Eliaquim Mangala over his debut for their draw with Chelsea.
The £32million Frenchman has had a lengthy wait for his first taste of English football but was muscular and dependable in a tough opening assignment.
"He was tremendous. I don't think he's played for five months," said Kompany.
"I think it is up to him how good he could be but it looks like he is eager to progress, which is important at his age (23) as he is still young.
"Obviously you can see he has all the basics to be more than a good defender. He will need some time, like everyone else, and with time he will improve. Going by this performance you will be looking forward to what he can achieve."
