As the team with the highest FIFA ranking in the European Championship, Belgium go to France this summer as one of the tournament favourites despite having to cope without injured captain Vincent Kompany.

Nine defenders in Marc Wilmots 23-man provisional squad for Euro 2016.

But no Vincent Kompany.

The inspirational Manchester City captain has had no luck with injuries in recent times and has undergone groin and thigh surgery.

Jason Denayer is Wilmot's nominated replacement for Kompany.

With the head coach saying "Denayer is the replacement for Kompany to me," he explained. "And Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld will start in the full-back positions."

Without question this is the best chance Belgium have ever had of lifting a major trophy.

Axel Witsel will marshall the team in midfield alongside Tottenham's Mousa Dembele.

In Kompany's absence Eden Hazard has been pronounced as the likely captain of the side.

Romelu Lukaku will hope to lead the line while his brother makes the cut in defence, and Jordan Lukaku knows Kompany will be missed:

"Yes, it's a big blow because he's our captain, he's our leader, he's one of the best players in the squad obviously so it's a big blow for us, the players in the country."

Kevin de Bruyne is another player who arrives in form at the Euros as Belgium look to navigate through a tough looking group of Italy, Ireland and Sweden.