Vincent Kompany is fighting to become a mainstay at the heart of Manchester City's back four until the end of the season.
The club captain was a surprise inclusion for the defeat by Chelsea but missed last weekend's victory over Hull City.
He is ready to start against Southampton if selected and Pep Guardiola revealed he wants Kompany to remain at the Etihad Stadium next year.
Asked if Kompany could have an impact come August, Guardiola said: 'Yep - he has a contract.