Skipper Kompany ignores his critics

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is adamant he hasn’t been affected by criticism.

Though they are a point off top spot in the Barclays Premier League, City have been particularly

disappointing in the Champions League and face a fight to qualify for the knockout stages.

That has led to some cutting analysis from outside the club. Kompany, outstanding at the heart of City's defence last year, has also found his form the subject of scrutiny.

But the Belgian said: "Personally, I don't ever get affected by it. I just keep living the life and keep working really hard. If one day goes a little bit less than another, I know I have at least done my best.

"We'll be here in a couple of weeks or months and maybe everyone will be praises and smiles. It is going to happen. Everything takes time."

The Blues — whose 1-0 win over Swansea was the longest in Premier League history after 12 minutes of injury time — are sweating on the fitness of Richards, who suffered a knee injury that caused a lengthy stoppage.