Kompany knows that form and league positions mean little going into a final, as demonstrated by last season’s shock FA Cup final defeat to Wigan proved – but the skipper insists that the Blues will use the pain of that loss to good effect.
“If any lessons can be taken out of our defeat to Wigan last year it’s that a cup final is a cup final,” he said.
“It’s a one-off game and there isn’t any logic other than we have to be as hungry as we have been all season and be at our best on the day – if we are, we’ll have a good chance of winning the Capital One Cup – anything less represents a big risk.”
Kompany can’t wait to lead the Blues out against Sunderland and believes an English cup final is unique in world football.
With both sets of fans likely to create a vibrant atmosphere, the Belgian is relishing the occasion and the opportunity to add to his medal collection.
“For me Wembley is the greatest stadium in the world and for the players and the fans it’s a fantastic occasion,” he said.
...Vincent Kompany
“We’ll have more than 30,000 of our supporters there in what is a huge stadium and everything about Wembley and the finals that are played there epitomize what football is all about in this country. Lifting a trophy there would be incredible.”
Kompany was warned that former crowd favourite Adam Johnson will be a threat and though he believes the Black Cats winger has the ability to be a potential match-winner, he is hoping his old team-mate has a quiet day on Sunday.
“Johnno is a great player and I think people forget how important he was for us when he was at City,” he said.
“Many times he made a big impact when he played for us because that’s the sort of player he is – he will score goals and create chances and apart from this Sunday, I hope to see him do well in the future.
“From a personal point of view, the injury set-backs I had earlier in the season mean that I feel fresh mentally and physically and I’m just hungry for success. That’s what drives me and all the lads on.”
