City manager refuses to let Kompany rush back from injury

LONDON: Pep Guardiola has told Vincent Kompany not to try and rush back too soon from his latest injury setback.

The Belgian centreback is in China with his team-mates and went through a strenuous work out in the punishing heat.

He injured his thigh in May during the Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid and was initially ruled out for four months – taking him to early September.

And after a series of problems over the last couple of seasons, Guardiola has told him to take as much time as he needs.

Asked if his skipper had a chance of being fit for the start of the season, Guardiola said: “That’s not the important thing.

“What happened with Vincent Kompany the last two years it was so difficult for him and the team.

“The important thing is not when he’s coming back, it’s to be fit and ready to show he can play one week and one week more. ”

City are looking at Everton’s John Stones and Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci as possible new signings this summer.

They also currently have Kompany’s Belgian international team-mate Jason Denayer with them after two seasons out on loan.

That has prompted speculation that City know they cannot rely on the former Hamburg defender after his injury woes.

Guardiola added: “He must show that he can play regularly – especially that he can train every day. Then we will see again the best Vincent Kompany.

“His aim is not be back as soon as possible. Forget about it.

“The most important thing is when the doctors and physios say he’s already fit.

“If it’s Sunderland, perfect. Start of the Champions League, perfect. If not, September.”