Vincent Kompany To Miss Belgium's Game In Andorra But Could Play Against Israel

Manchester City defender Vincent Kompany will miss Belgium’s European Qualifier in Andorra on Saturday, although he could still feature against Israel.

Kompany has been on the sidelines since being substituted in the 2-1 home defeat to Juventus in the Champions League on September 15, missing City’s last five games.

However, he has still linked up with the Belgium squad and will train on his own over the next few days after City reached an agreement with Belgium coach Marc Wilmots.

The centre-back could then feature in Belgium’s final Group B qualifier at home to Israel on Tuesday if he proves his fitness, according to Belgian federation officials.

Belgium defender Jan Vertonghen told Sky Sports News HQ: “Vincent is here to train. He trains outside as well and I spoke to him and he feels good. I don’t know who will make the decision, maybe himself or the manager.

“I hope he will play because he is a very important player for us.”

City manager Manuel Pellegrini has criticised Wilmots’ decision to name Kompany in his 23-man squad for the two qualifiers, which are expected to confirm Belgium’s participation in Euro 2016.

Pellegrini said he could not prevent Kompany from joining up with the Belgian squad, but made it clear that the player would not be fit to play.

“Vincent continues to recover from his calf injury and we will see the way he improves the next weeks,” Pellegrini said. “But Vincent cannot play [for Belgium].

“I cannot ask him not to travel. If the national team call him, he must go, but he cannot play, so I don’t think he will play.”

SKYSPORTS