Kompany is out of business once again
VINCENT Kompany has been ruled out of tonight’s FA Cup replay against Huddersfield in yet another injury blow for the City skipper.
But Blues boss Pep Guardiola is confident the defender will be back in the first-team squad reckoning soon – and will take a part in the rest of the season.
Kompany was due to make his comeback in the original game against Huddersfield, which ended in a goalless draw 11 days ago.
But on the eve of that game he reported a problem with his leg and was left out as a precaution.
Guardiola said at the time it was not a serious problem but it was clearly not just a precaution.
Asked if Kompany was fit to be involved against the Championship outfit at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola replied: “No. He is much better, but not ready.”
On the question of when he will return, Guardiola said: “Soon – he is in the last part – soon.”
And he was then quizzed on whether the 30-year-old Belgian would take part in the rest of the season, he answered: “Yes.”
Kompany has made just five starts this season, but in three of those games he had to leave the field with an injury – the only time he has completed 90 minutes without incident was in his last appearance, the 3-0 win at Crystal Palace.
Kompany himself has vowed to keep fighting for his career until he was certain he could not play one more game.
Guardiola could make a number of changes tonight, with midfielder Aleix Garcia a possible starter.