Multilingual and multi-talented, Vincent was runner-up in the Blues fans’ Player of the Season poll for 2008/09 then really came into his own in 2009/10, switching from midfield to his international position of centre-half with aplomb.

Equally at home as a central defender or defensive midfielder, the Belgian international regular joined City from Bundesliga side Hamburg SV in August 2008 for a fee of around £6million.

He was Mark Hughes' third signing and made a hugely impressive debut in August's 3-0 victory over West Ham United.

Kompany began his professional career in his homeland with Anderlecht in the 2003/04 season and almost immediately attracted interest from across Europe for his composed performances in the Champions League.

He eventually moved to Germany and signed for Bundesliga giants Hamburg SV in 2006, but injuries restricted him to just 39 appearances.

His comfort in two positions proved to be a bonus for City as injuries and suspensions bit into the squad over a gruelling 2008-09 season. Playing with a toe injury for some of the time he was one of only five Blues players to start more than 30 Premier League games.

The toe problem became serious enough to warrant an operation in the summer of 2009, which forced Vincent out of the reckoning until the autumn. Despite this setback and the presence of several new signings, some outstanding performances persuaded first Mark Hughes and then Roberto Mancini to make him a regular starter.

Vincent flourished even further on the Italian manager's watch, being named as player of the season for 2010/11 and becoming club captain in the next campaign.

An accomplished and intelligent Tweeter, he broke new ground in February 2012 when taking part in a live webchat on the City website, fielding questions from fans via social media. The lynchpin and heartbeat of the team, Vincent is a natural leader and one of the best central defenders in Europe.

Vincent Kompany's Gallery