World Cup 2018: England group rivals Belgium concerned Vincent Kompany could miss tournament

Kompany left the pitch early in the second half after stretching for the ball and is now a major doubt ahead of confirmation of the 23-man squad

Vincent Kompany leaves the field in Brussels

(Getty Images)

Belgium are concerned Vincent Kompany could miss the World Cup after the experienced defender picked up a groin injury in Saturday evening’s 0-0 draw with Portugal.

Kompany left the pitch early in the second half after stretching for the ball and is now a major doubt ahead of confirmation of the 23-man squad, which Roberto Martinez will announce on Monday.

The Manchester City captain missed the 2016 European Championships through injury and could now miss out on the World Cup and the chance to play against England in Group G. He will now undergo scans to assess the extent of his layoff.

Vincent Kompany injured himself stretching in a challenge

(Getty Images)

“You don’t want to lose players like Vincent,” Martinez said after Saturday’s match in Brussels. “There’s the experience ... there’s a little bit the knowhow, there’s the communication on the pitch. I think that understanding – knowing what’s expected in big games and big moments is important so you don’t want to lose any of those players.

“We feel a little bit disappointed for him because he’s been working so well in the camp. Already his influence in the group is always positive, he always wants to help and he’s been working extremely hard.”