HAZARD: BE PATIENT.. WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED
EDEN HAZARD and Kevin De Bruyne have vowed to step up their performances when Belgium face Tunisia tomorrow.
The Premier League duo took a while to get going in Monday’s win over Panama.
An improved secondhalf performance eventually saw them home 3-0, but captain Hazard knows more will be required against Tunisia. He said: “The first game at any tournament is always a little tough and the heat also tired us out.
“But, after rest, we’ll be ready to roll again.”
De Bruyne (right) set up the second goal for Romelu Lukaku with a typically innovative pass and the Manchester City midfielder wants more.
He said: “I have to get the strikers into situations where they can score. If I do that, then I know I’m doing a good job.”
Vincent Kompany missed training with Belgium again yesterday – but is expected to be fit to face England next Thursday.
The Manchester City defender has yet to train with Roberto Martinez’s side in Russia, while he recovers from a groin injury picked up in the build-up to the tournament. Kompany is expected to start training with the Red Devils at their Moscow training base today, and could make his first appearance in the eagerly-awaited clash with England, which could decide which of the two sides tops Group G. “We expect Kompany to be on the field within three days”, said former Everton manager Martinez, speaking on Tuesday, meaning the City defender is scheduled to train with the squad today.
Fellow defender Thomas Vermaelen did some light training with the group yesterday, as he continues his recovery from a hamstring problem, but he too will miss the game against Tunisia.