Belgium defender Ciman returns home from Russia

Moscow, June 16 (IANS) Belgian defender Laurent Ciman saw his World Cup campaign end before it began on Saturday as he was sent home while the full squad moved from Moscow to Sochi for their 2018 World Cup opener against Panama on Monday.

Belgium's coach Roberto Martinez had to exclude the Los Angeles defender Ciman, who was called up as a wild card in case either Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany or Barcelona's Thomas Vermaelen were not able to appear in Russia due to injury, reports Efe.

However, the Spanish coach decided that Ciman's presence was not needed as Martinez believes that Kompany and Vermaelen are on the road to a full recovery from their physical problems.

Martinez, according to the Belgian football federation, thanked Ciman for his professionalism and contribution to De Rode Duivels in the lead up to the World Cup.

Belgium is set to compete in Group G along with Panama, Tunisia and England.

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