City hopeful over Kompany fitness

The last two years of Vincent Kompany’s career may have been tarnished by injury, but Manchester City finally believe their talismanic captain is fully fit and over his problems.

The Belgium international played in just 14 league games last season as muscle injuries took hold, and he has not featured at all since rupturing his thigh against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.

New boss Pep Guardiola had reportedly considered letting Kompany go in the summer, but has given him one more chance to prove his fitness.

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The Spaniard expects the 30-year-old to return to the fold soon, and is excited about having him available alongside the likes of John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi.

“The last two years were so frustrating for him and the club because of his injuries,” said Guardiola.

“Now think we know the reason why it happened. It’s much better. He trained a lot, he will be ready.

“He will be part of the group and compete with the group and other central defenders to win his position. We have a lot of games, so of course, we need him. I am so happy.”