Kevin De Bruyne: 'Belgium can cope without Vincent Kompany'

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has insisted that his side can cope during the World Cup without injured teammate Vincent Kompany.

Kompany, who was included in the 23-man squad by manager Roberto Martinez, picked up a groin problem in a friendly against Portugal on Saturday, the extent of which is not known.

De Bruyne told Sky Sports News that he is hopeful his Manchester City teammate can return during the tournament, but added that Belgium will be able to manage without his initial presence.

"He will be fine, maybe not for the first few games if possible but I don't know how he is going to react to the treatment and how he will progress," the midfielder said.

"Hopefully he will be fit as soon as possible but we don't have to take the risk. We should be able to get through the group with the team we have. But obviously if he is fit, it will help us."

Belgium's first game is against Panama on June 18.