Vincent Kompany believes the pace of Raheem Sterling has provided a new tool to Manchester City's game this season.

Sterling arrived at Etihad Stadium in a £49million deal from Liverpool during the summer and has hit the ground running with a decent performance in the Premier League season opening win over West Bromwich Albion on Monday night.

"We have some new tools to use this season," Kompany told the club's official website.

"Raheem has given us his sharpness and speed to hurt teams when we are defending and have our backs against the wall.

"It gives the other team something to think about. If a full-back wants to push up, they might not want to go all the way forward if they knew what they have on their back.

"It gives us that little bit of danger we need. We have to be offensive so to have players like this is really important."