Roberto Martinez says Vincent Kompany’s leadership was key to his inclusion in Belgium’s 23-man World Cup squad.
The skipper was forced off in the Red Devils’ goalless friendly draw with Portugal on Saturday night and looked to be a doubt for the summer tournament in Russia.
However, Martinez confirmed Kompany has made the final shortlist and explained the defender will be given every chance to compete.
“The situation is clear,” the manager told press. “We will try to use the rules to our advantage - we have to make the final outfield squad 24 hours before our game against Panama on 17 June.
“We will try to give the maximum reaction time to see what the problem is with Vinnie.
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“For any player, a scan would reveal the extent of the problem but with Vincent, we spoke closely with Man City and the experience over the past few years shows that his reaction to certain soft tissue injuries cannot be described via a scan.
“We will wait for a period of seven or eight days and then get a good opportunity to make a good diagnosis.
“The approach is very easy. Vincent has been a leader, working extremely hard in the camp for the Red Devils. He performed in a fantastic manner on the pitch against Portugal.
“A fresh performance and his leadership is essential for us.
“It’s a World Cup - not just any competition - and due to the role of Vinnie, it’s a decision we’ve taken in order to give the best possible chance to make the right decision.”
