Vincent Kompany has insisted that Manchester City will be ready for the "great challenge" which awaits them when they face Liverpool on Sunday.

Premier League leaders Liverpool host City at Anfield knowing that a victory would move them seven points clear of Manuel Pellegrini's side, and Kompany admits that their opponents deserve to be respected.

"They have been on a fantastic run and we know we have to be focused and leave the pitch at the end knowing we've given everything because there is so much at stake in this game," the Belgian defender told members of the media.

"I have a lot of respect for Liverpool and they are not at the top of the league by luck, but my only concern is making sure we play the best we can and that we come away with a positive result. This is a great challenge for us."

City beat Liverpool 2-1 when the two sides met at the Etihad Stadium in December.