Manchester City center back Vincent Kompany might be removed from the Champions League squad ahead of the knockout stage matches against AS Monaco.
The Belgian captain last played in November against Crystal Palace, where he collided with Claudio Bravo and had to be subbed off after suffering knee injury. Kompany has missed over 60 games in the last 2 years, and many critics doubt his ability to return to first team football at his former prowess.
Pep Guardiola must submit his updated squad on February 1st, so Kompany can play in City’s next three matches to prove he is fit enough to earn a spot in the 23-man roster. There are two away Premier League matches against Everton and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as a 4th round FA Cup match against Bolton or Palace.
Ilkay Gundogan’s absence would have reserved a spot in the squad for Kompany, but the arrival of the young Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus forces Guardiola to make a decision regarding the backline boss.
If Kompany returns in form, his presence would bring plenty of assurance to a defense which has struggled in all competitions to hold clean sheets. Pep will most likely include Kompany in his plans for the match at Goodison Park, which should be a solid evaluation of his fitness status.