No fear for Kompany

The heat has been turned up on table-topping City, with their 1-0 defeat at Everton on Tuesday night coupled with Manchester United's 2-0 victory over Stoke meaning that Roberto Mancini's side now lead the way by goal difference alone.

It remains to be seen whether they can hold off United's challenge, but Kompany is confident City's players will not buckle, having grown accustomed to the intense scrutiny that has surrounded the club since it's Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008.

"If there is one thing I know about our team, it is that we are mentally strong," said City captain Kompany.

"We have been living with this pressure for the past three-and-a-half years, and it has not affected us.

"If anything, it will give us a boost to carry on and if people want to underestimate us, then please do so."

Enjoyable

The game at Goodison Park marked Kompany's return to the City team after a four-game suspension following his red card in the 3-2 FA Cup third-round defeat to United in January.

In the defender's absence, the team managed to win twice in the league, but were beaten over two legs by Liverpool in the Carling Cup semi-final.

With the Everton loss included, it has been a frustrating period for Kompany, but the Belgian is feeling optimistic about what lies ahead and - with the visit of Fulham to the Etihad Stadium coming up on Saturday in the league - eager to push on.

"It's not been enjoyable, but I have been looking at the team and still feel that we have done a good job," Kompany said.

"Now we have to look forward, and looking forward I see good things for us, and that is what is important.

City, in common with all the Premier League clubs, on Thursday released their 25-man squad list for the remainder of the season, with want-away striker Carlos Tevez included in their selection.