• Premier League

Kompany has 2% chance of facing Newcastle

ESPN staff
December 14, 2012
Vincent Kompany is important to Manchester City © PA Photos
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Club captain Vincent Kompany has a two per cent chance of being fit for Manchester City's trip to Newcastle, according to manager Roberto Mancini.

The defender limped out of Sunday's derby defeat to Manchester United with a hamstring injury, but the Premier League champions are working with the defender in a bid to make him available for the game at St James' Park.

If Kompany is not in contention, Mancini must choose between Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott to partner Matija Nastasic in the centre of defence.

"We will try [with Kompany] this morning [Friday] but it is difficult," Mancini said. "He has a chance: two per cent."

Mancini played down reports that he had been involved in a dressing-room row with Joe Hart after the derby defeat, while he came out and criticised Mario Balotelli for his performance at United.

He added: "After the game, when I was asked if I was happy with Mario's performance I say no and I talked with the players. Sometimes we can also have a discussion but I keep it in the dressing room not like other people who talk outside the dressing room.

"For me it is better like this and we know from where it comes this history."

Mancini has resigned himself to losing Yaya Toure to the African Nations Cup for much of January and February and expects the midfielder to depart after the FA Cup third-round tie against Watford.

"This is difficult," he added. "I think Yaya will go to the African Cup after the Watford game."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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