Michael Ballack 13 (in english)

Match report Chelsea vs Newcastle: Chelsea Take Title Race To The Last Day (05.05.08)

2008-05-05T18:46:00.002-05:00

Chelsea vs Newcastle 2-0
05.05.08
Chelsea Take Title Race To The Last Day

The London side headed north in their attempt to keep pace on league leaders Manchester United, and weathered a few scares to do so. Second half strikes from Ballack and Malouda gave them all three points against the Magpies, who lacked that touch of class...

An engaging first half at St James’ Park began slowly with chances at a premium for both sides. Whilst Chelsea had the better of the possession they were unable to carve out any clear openings and were reduced to shooting from range. All of which failed to trouble Newcastle keeper Steve Harper who didn’t have a save to make in the first half.

Newcastle by contrast were playing well in patches but unable to sustain any pressure despite looking the more likely side to score. Whilst the best chances fell to Michael Owen, it was Martins who was looking lively, his pace and trickery on the ball posing problems, even if like Chelsea his shooting wasn’t.

After only five minutes Nicky Butt dinked a lovely ball over the Chelsea defence to Michael Owen but the England striker could only manage to flick it over the bar.
However Owen was to have an even better chance just before the half hour mark. A good move from Newcastle down the left saw the ball played through to Martins in the box. Although neither the Nigerian nor Mark Viduka could convert the chance the ball broke loose to Owen on the edge of the box. With Cech stranded, he hit a well struck shot which was destined for the back of the net until John Terry arrived to clear it off the line and save his side going behind.

A more determined Chelsea side emerged for the second half as if Avram Grant had reminded his players that this was a must win match. The visitors laid seige to the Newcastle goal with John Terry coming the closest from a corner with a thumping header that smashed against the Newcastle bar.

The pressure finally told just on the hour mark when the visitors finally made their dominance count. After Malouda was fouled on the edge of the box by Faye, the referee awarded Chelsea a free kick. Drogba floated the ball into the area and Ballack was on hand to head home and open the scoring for the visitors.

Rather than inspire the visitors the goal sprang Newcastle into life and after having being completely dominated for the first twenty minutes of the second half they began to create their own chances.

Martins flashed a shot just wide after a great through ball from Butt and then seconds later Michael Owen was almost on hand for a tap in after Butt’s shot had been deflected but he just couldn’t reach. Suddenly Chelsea were looking ragged as they realised how slender their lead was.

However with ten minutes to go the visitors scored again to release any nerves and make the game safe. A lovely ball from substitute Lampard put Malouda through and he finished calmly to make it two nil and effectively end the contest.

The win takes Chelsea back level on points with leaders Manchester United with just one game to go. Whilst Chelsea head back to London to play Bolton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge, United are away to Wigan Athletic. It promises to be a thrilling end to the season.

GOALS
2-0 Chelsea (Malouda, 81)
1-0 Chelsea (Ballack, 60)

Newcastle: Harper, Beye, Taylor, Faye, Jose Enrique (N'Zogbia, 78), Geremi (Duff, 70), Butt, Barton, Viduka (Smith, 46), Owen, Martins.Chelsea: Cech, Ferreira, Terry, Carvalho (Alex, 78), Bridge, Essien, Mikel, Ballack, Anelka (Lampard, 65), Drogba (Shevchenko, 86), Malouda.Referee: Steve Bennett
Gill Clark

Source:
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=684699

The Thursday interview: Michael Ballack

2008-05-01T16:53:00.001-05:00

The Thursday interview: Michael Ballack
01.04.08

Hours after helping the side to our first Champions League final, Michael Ballack joined up with chelseafc.com to discuss the achievement, and how desperate he is to claim a winner's medal.

The German midfielder played an important role in last night's 3-2 victory over Liverpool, supporting Didier Drogba with run after run. Significantly, it was he who was fouled by Sami Hyypia that presented us with a penalty to move ahead in the tie.

Rewarded with a day off by manager Avram Grant today, he took time out with us to reflect on last night's extra time victory over Liverpool, and was in high spirits.

'I feel good, it is the next day and I feel good,' he smiled. 'We had a good, difficult win, and I think it is a great victory for the club, for everybody.

'Reaching a Champions League final was a big, big target for us, now we've done it and it is always a good feeling to be in the final, it is fantastic!'

Looking back at the penalty incident, even at the time he was in no doubt as to whether Roberto Rosetti would award a foul.

'I thought it was a foul, and hoped the referee would give a penalty. It happened very quickly, but he kicked my left foot, and it was the right decision,' the midfielder explained.

Lampard has since received much praise for his courage in taking the penalty, but Ballack was not surprised his team-mate took the responsibility.

'It was a high pressure kick, but you know, Frank is a big man and can score penalties,' he said.

Asked whether he would have taken it had Lampard not played, the response was straightforward. 'I can shoot penalties, so it's no problem. We both have a lot of experience, and I think the best players should take responsibility in these situations. He did it very well.'

As the euphoria of semi-final victory begins to wear off, and thoughts move on to Moscow, Ballack believes the final will be contested by the most deserving teams, but he is taking nothing for granted regarding the result, despite Saturday's 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.

'With Chelsea we are in good condition, good form, and it is open. The two best teams in Europe at the moment are in the final, and have a head-to-head race in the Premier League.

'It has been a great season for both teams, and we need a good performance on the day, so we will see,' he said.

A runner up with Bayer Leverkusen in the competition in 2002, Ballack is hungry for the silverware that would prove what all Chelsea fans already know - that he is truly one of the greats.

A German player of the year in 2002, 2003 and 2005, Ballack was a Bundesliga winner with Bayern Munich before joining the Blues in the summer of 2006, and he has since added the Carling Cup to his list of honours, but missed out on the FA Cup last season due to injury.

Within a matter of weeks, he may be able to add Premier League and Champions League medals to his collection, and he is fully focused on doing so.

'I think not just for me, it's for everybody who plays, winning titles is a part of your career, you want titles,' he reasoned.

'I have won until now the German league and it is a target for me to win the Champions League. I am 31 now and I want the responsibility to go to a final. I lost the first one and now I want to win! We all want to win.'

The memory of Hampden Park six years ago is still fresh in Ballack's mind. Pipped at the post by Bayern in the league, they were undone in the Champions League final by a Zinedine Zidane volley.

'You can't compare now to then, it is always different. It was six years ago and we were the underdog, but if you get to the final it is always open, it doesn't matter what happened before.

'At Leverkusen we were very good, were in fantastic form, and played a good final, but we lost.'

This time, Ballack, like others in the squad, believes Chelsea have a responsibility to succeed. This is a word that seems particularly relevant to him at the moment, after Saturday's nerveless penalty against United, and the heated discussions with Didier Drogba over who should be on free-kick duty.

'Yeah of course, I feel good, but everybody wants to do something for the team, everybody takes responsibility. It's better when you want to take than things when nobody wants to!

'We shared the free-kicks and I went close with a shot last night, it was no big thing. It is done and we will speak in the next games as well so if we get a free-kick, I am sure somebody will take it!'

Set piece duties are also an important part of Ballack's game for his national side, and the Germany captain may even be able to claim a third piece of silverware in the summer, as Euro 2008 approaches.

For now though, he is content to be concentrating on Chelsea action, and is ignoring the possibility of a personal treble.

'I could do, but there a lot of players that can win each of these, playing for Man United or for Chelsea. I am one of these of course but it is not on my mind,' he confirmed.

'I am focused on the games with Chelsea, and only when the season is done will I concentrate on the European Cup with the national team.

'It is a long, long season and we work very hard in a difficult season with a lot of injuries, me too, and it is not the time to think now on the European Championships.

'We are so close to winning a title and that is much more important now.'

Source:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_0

Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg: Lampard crowns emotional evening

2008-05-01T16:46:00.003-05:00

Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg: Lampard crowns emotional evening
30.04.08

by Michael Harrold from Stamford Bridge

For those in the stands at Stamford Bridge it was draining enough as Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC fought it out for the chance to meet Manchester United FC in the UEFA Champions League final. So it was hard to imagine what emotions Frank Lampard was going through when, less than a week after his mother's death, he stepped up to fire the penalty that put Chelsea within sight of their first final in the competition.

First final
This game between the two English rivals had it all, even, for once, goals – five of them in fact as the teams slugged out their third semi-final in four seasons. For the first time it was Chelsea who prevailed, winning 3-2 to advance 4-3 on aggregate. The London side were contesting their fourth semi-final in five campaigns and they were not going to let the opportunity slip. Lampard was determined to make sure of that. The England midfielder had sat out the weekend match against Manchester United but with so much at stake he returned to make a telling contribution. Michael Ballack had taken the penalty that defeated United, here Lampard took responsibility, shooting low to Pepe Reina's left eight minutes into extra time to give Chelsea a 2-1 lead before wheeling away and falling to the sodden turf.

Emotionally exhausting
He pointed to the skies and kissed his black armband then picked out his father in the stands. An already emotionally exhausting night had another crescendo moment. Not that the game was over. There was still time for Didier Drogba to rifle in a third and even for Ryan Babel to pull one back late on for Liverpool. Avram Grant's team, though, refused to buckle. There is an unstoppable momentum about Chelsea right now. Just when they seem down, they hit back, keeping the Premier League title race alive and recording this unprecedented achievement.

'Normal guy'
When Grant replaced the 'Special One', José Mourinho, in September he was asked what he considered himself to be. "Just a normal guy," was his response. Seven months on, as his side prepare to take on United in the first all-English UEFA Champions League final he may have to revise that statement. Even Mourinho didn't make it this far. This was an evening his team were determined to make their own, as epitomised by Drogba. Stung by pre-match comments from Liverpool boss Rafael Benítez, he quickly made his presence felt. Before the first half was out, Martin Škrtel had hobbled off after one last-ditch tackle on the 30-year-old and Steven Gerrard was fortunate not to join him on the sidelines after being caught by the striker.

Drogba duel
With a nod perhaps to Benítez, Drogba also won a free-kick in the opening minute, raising a cheer from home supporters angered by accusations that he goes down too easily. Up against Jamie Carragher, it was a heavyweight contest with the Ivorian pulling the punches. Twice inside 20 minutes he got the better of the centre-back only to miss his chance when well-placed. He soon made amends. Lampard's emotional return had given Chelsea a lift before kick-off, but more significant still was his contribution on 33 minutes when he sent Salomon Kalou clear down the left. When Kalou's shot was saved, Drogba was on hand to turn in the rebound, pointedly running along the touchline to celebrate in front of the Liverpool bench.

Old-fashioned feel
Chelsea captain John Terry had talked of the "burning pain" of those preceding semi-finals, although some of that fire must have been doused by the torrential rain. As the two groups of fans raised the temperature and the pitch cut up, it had the feel of an old-style English league battle. Of course it was anything but. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has changed the landscape of English football since buying the Stamford Bridge outfit in June 2003, investing an estimated €350m in players and transforming his team into a powerhouse at home and abroad. The championship twice, the FA Cup once and the League Cup twice have all been won but never the prize he has coveted most. What a time to do it now with his home city of Moscow the venue for the final.

Long wait ends
Even with the scene set so perfectly, and with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson an intrigued observer, Liverpool refused to buckle. When Torres scored to force extra time the visiting supporters, so accustomed under Benítez to seeing their side triumph in this competition with backs against the wall, sang "we shall not be moved". This time, though, Lampard , Drogba and co ensured they were.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=690664.html

Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg: 'Lamps' lights up famous Chelsea night

2008-05-01T16:42:00.003-05:00

Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg:

'Lamps' lights up famous Chelsea night
30.04.08

by Trevor Haylett from London

At the end he stood apart from the throng of celebrating Chelsea FC players, a man consumed by his own thoughts and whirling emotions. Two days before the funeral of the mother he admits was his guiding light, Frank Lampard scored a vital penalty in extra-time to drive Chelsea towards victory over Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League semi-final. It was an act of courage that had team-mates queueing up afterwards to praise him.

Impressive character
Joe Cole said it was remarkable that Lampard was even involved in the game. "I've known Frank a long time, I know the type of fellow he is, and I don't think he gets enough plaudits," said Cole. "He's a great player and a great man. I can't really put into words what I feel about him as a man to even be out there playing and then to give the performance he did and then take that penalty and score. To do that at a time when this has happened to his family, I take my hat off to him."

Fitting gesture
Petr Čech said that scoring the penalty was a fitting way for the midfielder to honour his mother. "Frank took the decision to play the game which was brave," said the goalkeeper. "On the other hand it was the best for him to get the penalty and score the goal, maybe the decisive goal, and then to celebrate as he did. She was great for him and it was good that he could honour her. I am delighted for everyone with this win but especially for Frank because it has been a difficult time for him."

Thrilling performance
There may have been fears among Chelsea fans that the England midfielder was not ready for the ordeal of such a big game but that was immediately dispelled in the way he settled into the contest. Lampard set up an early chance for Didier Drogba and then drilled the pass which put Salomon Kalou away in the 33rd minute, Drogba following up his team-mate's shot to score the opening goal.

Pressure moment
As the recipient of so many assists from him over recent seasons, Drogba appreciates the full range of Lampard's qualities. He said: "To take a penalty like this one, very crucial for this game, only Frank Lampard can do it. Only big, big players like him can do it. But he felt all the club was behind him and that is fantastic.

'Honestly unbelievable'
"To play a Champions League semi-final after something like that is the mark of a big player," Drogba added. "He stayed calm, he took his time and he played a great match. He is one of the greatest midfielders in the world." Chelsea captain John Terry added: "The character he has shown tonight, not only playing but stepping up to take that penalty for his family is honestly unbelievable."

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=690797.html

Match report Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg: Drogba double takes Chelsea to Moscow

2008-05-01T16:25:00.003-05:00

Match report Chelsea vs Liverpool, second leg: Drogba double takes Chelsea to Moscow
30.04.08

By Trevor Haylett from Stamford Bridge

Chelsea FC finally achieved their dream of a place in the UEFA Champions League final by overcoming Liverpool FC on a night that resonated with high drama and heartfelt emotion. They were taken to extra time, where Didier Drogba scored his second goal after Frank Lampard, making his return to the side following the untimely death of his mother, had swung the tie back Chelsea's way from the penalty spot.

High drama
It made it all the more sweet that victory came at the expense of a Liverpool team who had proved their nemesis at this stage on two occasions in the previous three seasons and who drew level at 1-1 through Fernando Torres in the 64th minute. Having dispatched one English rival, Avram Grant's men will take on another in Moscow on 21 May where Manchester United FC await. The two clubs are virtually neck-and-neck in the race for the Premier League; now they will dispute superiority on Europe's grandest stage as well.

Chelsea charge
Despite the boost given them by John Arne Riise's last-gasp own goal in the first leg, Chelsea were clearly not interested in sitting on their advantage. After a day of incessant rain the surface proved troublesome, although Chelsea kept their feet better and their passes were more assured – Drogba stepping away from Jamie Carragher to unleash a powerful drive that Pepe Reina pushed away. Liverpool's first foray sparked a counterattack in which Yossi Benayoun found Steven Gerrard to set Torres clear, yet Petr Čech was swiftly out to make a smothering save.

Drogba breakthrough
The hosts continued to control proceedings and Reina was forced to sprint off his line to thwart Drogba, before being left exposed by Lampard's through pass only for the the Ivorian to drag his low shot beyond the far post. Liverpool's cause was scarcely helped when Martin Škrtel hobbled off to be replaced by Sami Hyypiä. The visitors looked vulnerable and it was no surprise when Chelsea went ahead. Salomon Kalou stretched the defence down the left and forced Reina into a flying save; Drogba was first on the scene and rifled an unstoppable drive in at the near post.

Torres response
The balance of the game changed perceptibly at the start of the second period as Liverpool suddenly began to push forward and only Čech's outstretched left leg kept Chelsea's lead intact. From a well-worked free-kick, Gerrard nodded on and Dirk Kuyt's flick was heading in before the goalkeeper intervened. Chelsea prepared for the expected onslaught yet came unstuck four minutes past the hour. Benayoun's driving run took him away from four defenders, resulting in a prodded pass through to Torres whose instant low shot found the bottom corner.

Extra-time excitement
Torres almost worked another scoring opportunity as Liverpool sought to exploit their advantage although Michael Essien came closest to averting extra time, shooting into the side-netting from an acute angle. The additional 30 minutes got under way at breathless pace, Hyypiä heading wide before Essien had a goal ruled out for offside by a team-mate. When Hyypiä's lunge felled Ballack in the 98th minute the referee immediately pointed to the spot and Lampard coolly converted, then broke down in tears amid a huddle of jubilant colleagues. Drogba seemed to have put the issue beyond doubt when he expertly turned in Nicolas Anelka's low centre in the 105th minute and, although Ryan Babel gave Liverpool late hope, the London club held firm to spark wild celebrations.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15108/match=301913/report=rp.html

Declaration about Chelsea vs Mancherster United 2-1: Ballack: anything is possible

2008-04-30T17:15:00.001-05:00

Declaration about Chelsea vs Mancherster United 2-1: Ballack: anything is possible
28.04.08

Michael Ballack believes all pressure is now on Manchester United after Saturday's 2-1 win put us on level points with the league rivals.

The German midfielder can relate to losing a title on the last day of the season after his side Bayer Leverkusen lost out to Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich and feels this could now be the fate bestowed upon Manchester United.

'Last week they had a five-point lead and now we have closed the gap. They still have everything in their hands but the pressure is on them,' said Ballack.

'It looked like they were champions, but now it's getting smaller and tighter.

'In 2000 I was in a similar situation at Leverkusen, but we were the ones leading and Bayern Munich caught us.

'In the last game we were three points in front, but lost the game and the title. It can happen up to the last minute.

'We have the same points now and two games to play so everything is possible,' added the German.

The double goal-scorer said the victory was for more than just equal place at the top of the league, and with one major part of the midfield line-up missing, there was a dedication to be made.

After Ballack headed Chelsea's opener beyond the reach of Edwin van der Sar, the Blues ran to the bench and collected a specially printed shirt for Frank Lampard's late mother Pat, who sadly passed away last week, and dedicated the goal to her memory.

'The victory is for Frank and his family, it is a difficult time for everybody, especially his family, so we do not forget this,' explained Ballack.

'Everybody supported it [the goal celebration], it is a difficult time and it is a little thing, but we do what we can do. Our thoughts and victory are for him.'

With such a fantastic performance in memory of a much-loved Chelsea fan, Saturday's game proved to be the perfect way to silence the critics who believe the Blues may have lost our way.

'We are happy, it was a nice day for us, great weather, great victory and that is what we wanted, a little chance to win the title and we are back now.

'In the first half we played very well, we controlled the game and in the early minutes we had two very good chances and we deserved the 1-0.

'Especially in the first half we played well. Passed the ball with not just long balls, we moved the ball very good and we showed we can play football.

'After that Man United came a little bit better in the game, but after the 1-1, which was a big mistake for us, they didn't really have any chances.

'They had no one shoot on-goal, so we dominated the game.'

It was a Michael Carrick handball that gave Ballack the opportunity to take the lead back for the Blues with a penalty in the 86th minute, but, despite all eyes in Stamford Bridge bearing down on the number 13, he was unaffected by the pressure.

'I am used to it [the pressure]. I think I have taken a lot of important penalties in my career and this was a big situation. But it is no problem for me, I like this situation.

'I can handle the pressure, there is always a good situation if you are under pressure, I like this.'

With all this talk of pressure, anticipation begins to build as the midfielder looks ahead to Wednesday's Champions League clash against Liverpool.

'A win gives us confidence, we have it and we have shown that we can play very well but on Wednesday it is a very different game, it is the Champions League.

'So on Wednesday we are expecting a very different fight.

'But I think we look fresh, we look better than all other teams have in the Champions League now, so we will see. We want to get to the final,' finished Ballack.

Source:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_15

Report Chelsea vs Mancherster United 2-1: Ballack keeps Chelsea hopes alive

2008-04-30T17:07:00.001-05:00

Report Chelsea vs Mancherster United 2-1: Ballack keeps Chelsea hopes alive
26.04.08

Michael Ballack's 86th-minute penalty kept Chelsea FC in the hunt for the Premier League title as Avram Grant's side defeated leaders Manchester United FC 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Ballack winner
The Germany captain fired to the right of United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar to score his second goal of the afternoon and pull the London side level at the top of the Premier League with United on 81 points with two games to play. United's vastly superior goal difference gives them the advantage in the run in, but Chelsea, who were without midfielder Frank Lampard following his mother's death, maintain hopes of a double with Liverpool FC to visit in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

Rooney equaliser
Ballack had given Chelsea the lead in added time at the end of the first half when unmarked he headed in Didier Drogba's cross from the right. The goal came after a strong first-half performance from Chelsea who had come close to taking the lead on 20 minutes when Joe Cole struck the crossbar. United, though, were gifted a way back into the match 12 minutes after the restart. The normally dependable Ricardo Carvalho's poor backpass allowed Wayne Rooney to dart in and fire low under Petr Čech.

Injury concerns
Chelsea's title hopes looked over as the clock wound down but with five minutes to play Michael Carrick handled in the area, allowing Ballack to step up and score from the spot. Still the drama was not over as substitute Andriy Shevchenko cleared Darren Fletcher's attempt off the line at the other end. To compound United's afternoon, Nemanja Vidić, who missed Wednesday's goalless draw against FC Barcelona with a stomach complaint, was forced off after taking a blow to the face early in the first half, while Rooney was substituted in the second complaining of a sore hip.

Birmingham denied
It was a dramatic afternoon at the foot of the Premier League as Liverpool FC came from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Birmingham City FC, who had led through Mikael Forsell and Sebastian Larsson only for Peter Crouch and Yossi Benayoun to snatch a draw. Birmingham stay 18th and now have 33 points, a point behind both Reading FC – held 0-0 at Wigan Athletic FC – and Bolton Wanderers FC, who drew 1-1 at Tottenham Hotspur FC.

Stirring comebacks
Fulham FC, in 19th position, kept alive their hopes of avoiding relegation with a rousing fightback at Manchester City FC, who had led 2-0 thanks to early goals from Stephen Ireland and Benjani Mwaruwari. Substitute Diomansy Kamara reduced the deficit with 20 minutes left and, after Danny Murphy had equalised, got the winner in the last seconds with a fine solo strike to take his side on to 30 points. There was also late joy for Sunderland AFC, who beat Middlesbrough FC 3-2 in the Wear-Tees derby thanks to Emanuel Pogatetz's 90th-minute own goal, while Newcastle United FC drew 2-2 at West Ham United FC.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/footballeurope/news/kind=2/newsid=688600.html

Chelsea vs Liverpool (1-1), first leg. Champions League semifinal

2008-04-22T19:10:00.003-05:00

Chelsea vs Liverpool (1-1), first leg. Champions League semifinal.
Chelsea profit from Riise intervention
22.04.08

A headed own goal deep into added time by Liverpool FC substitute John Arne Riise rescued a draw for Chelsea FC after Dirk Kuyt's first-half opener had looked like giving the home team a significant advantage in their UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Awkward header
Riise, who has not scored for Liverpool all season, stooped low to try to clear Salomon Kalou's cross from the left, but his awkward header flew past Pepe Reina and into the top of the net – giving Chelsea an away goal they had virtually given up on getting. It could have been so different for Liverpool, had visiting goalkeeper Petr Čech not spectacularly tipped over a late Steven Gerrard drive before denying Fernando Torres seconds before the equaliser.

Cagey opening
Both sides were slow to start and the cagey, tactical match predicted by many appeared likely to materialise. Chelsea seemed to have the upper hand thanks to a slightly more measured passing game, until Rafael Benítez's men created the first real opening of the tie. Xabi Alonso's long and hopeful ball over the top of Chelsea's back line found Kuyt, who beat the offside trap but failed to control properly and a combination of Čech and Ricardo Carvalho cleared the danger.

No rhythm
Still, Liverpool frequently struggled to find their rhythm as the half wore on and possession of the ball looked to be a luxury commodity. Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard almost caught the five-time champions off guard with a dangerous crossfield pass which the well-placed Joe Cole, in two minds, was unable to get a true touch on. Torres was presented with an even better opportunity at the other end on 30 minutes after being released by Gerrard, yet the striker could only fire straight at Čech when clean in on goal.

Kuyt strikes
Liverpool's fears were eased by the first goal of the semi-final in the 43rd minute. Kuyt capitalised on confusion between Claude Makelele and Ashley Cole after Javier Mascherano's miscued shot was skied over their heads, keeping both his eye on the ball and his nerve to drive the ball past Čech at the Kop end. The Dutchman's strike had a huge galvanising effect on the home side and on the match in general as the tempo was markedly increased, especially just after the break when the Reds made several threats to move further in front.

Drogba struggles
Suddenly the likes of Alonso and Ryan Babel could find each other with incisive interchanges that were previously beyond them, and the home crowd turned up the volume again. With Didier Drogba looking an isolated figure up front for Chelsea as he chased in vain a succession of long balls pumped in his direction, a goal for Avram Grant's team seemed more likely to come from midfield. Michael Ballack and Lampard combined to set Florent Malouda free in the box, where Mascherano's last-ditch block kept his effort off target.

Different complexion
The visitors did, however, force the pace as the clock ticked down, although Liverpool might well have doubled their advantage as first Gerrard then Torres tested Čech. Had either of those chances gone in, next Wednesday's second leg would have taken on an altogether different complexion – as it did, to the Londoners' benefit, when Riise beat Reina.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15108/match=301912/report=rp.html

Ballack's final goal

2008-04-11T13:24:00.004-05:00

Ballack's final goal
11.04.08

In some respects, Chelsea FC's performance against Fenerbahçe SK on Tuesday was a microcosm of their season. Not always convincing, at times uncertain and even frustrating for their fans. Ultimately, though, they did enough to continue the fight another day. Just as they stuck to their task doggedly against Fenerbahçe SK to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, they have shown a consistency in the Premier League that has kept Manchester United FC looking over their shoulder long after Arsenal FC effectively dropped out of the title race.

Final goal
Having battled so hard to get into this position, the challenge now is to finish the job. After losing three semi-finals in the past four years, and twice against Liverpool FC, there is a determination not to let the UEFA Champions League slip from their grasp again. "I think for the club and for me it would be fantastic if we could win this title, that's why I'm here," said midfielder Michael Ballack, now in his second year in London. The 31-year-old lost the final with Bayer 04 Leverkusen six seasons ago and there is a sense of unfinished business as he discusses Chelsea's chances this time round. "For ten years I think I've been playing in the Champions League and I want to win this competition. People remember just the trophies you win, not getting to the quarter-finals or the semi-finals."

Leverkusen reminder
Ballack needs little reminding of the disappointment of 2001/02. Leverkusen went into the final weeks of the season challenging on three fronts, but ended it empty handed, losing the Bundesliga title, German Cup final and the UEFA Champions League final all in the space of eleven days. With Manchester United FC to visit Stamford Bridge on 26 April in between the semi-final games against Liverpool FC, this campaign could hinge on one critical spell as well. "You work very hard all year to get in this situation and then you have to do the right things," Ballack said. "You have to win these games to win a title."

Grant test
It will be the ultimate test for Chelsea manager Avram Grant. Defeat Liverpool and perhaps he will finally emerge from the shadow of his predecessor José Mourinho, who came up short against the Reds at this stage in both 2005 and 2007. Despite leading Chelsea to second in the Premier League and back to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, Grant has been unable to totally win over supporters and defeat in the League Cup final against Tottenham Hotspur FC added fuel to the doubters' fire. Ballack, though, believes the Israeli deserves credit for getting Chelsea in a such a positive position, especially considering the obstacles in his path. The nasty cut Petr Čech sustained in training on the eve of the Fenerbahçe game was just the latest injury to hit the Chelsea squad, which in February also had to withstand the loss of Didier Drogba, Michael Essien, John Obi Mikel and Salomon Kalou to the African Cup of Nations.

Difficult season
"We've had a very difficult season with injuries and the African Cup was hard for us but we're still in a good position," Ballack said. "A lot of the players who had injuries are fit now and have had a little bit of rest during the year, so I expect a very strong Chelsea team in the next few weeks. It is always difficult if you work after José Mourinho. It doesn't matter who is the next manager; it will be difficult for him and for Avram Grant as well, but I think he did it well over the last weeks. We have had good results."

Injury
For Ballack, the biggest plus is to be playing at all. This time last season he suffered an ankle injury which ruled him out of the semi-final against Liverpool and would ultimately keep him out for eight months. He only returned for Chelsea in December and the game against Fenerbahçe was just his fourth in the UEFA Champions League this season. How Grant must be delighted to have the Germany captain back. His fourth-minute goal put Chelsea in control at Stamford Bridge and he was the driving force behind his side's early pressure.

'Confidence'
It was the sort of performance Chelsea fans were expecting when he signed from FC Bayern München at the end of the 2005/06 season. After a difficult first term adapting to the Premier League, it is also the sort of performance Ballack expects to deliver. "That's why I'm here, I did this in Germany and for the national team as well and I want to do the same for Chelsea," he said. "I'm happy to score again but the important thing is that the team wins, that the team performs and we did it. Now we have another two big games [against Liverpool]. It is always close and we expect it to be the same this year, but we have the second game at home and that gives us confidence."

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/magazine/news/kind=4/newsid=682656.html

Getting the job done. Chelsea vs Fenerbahce comments. Second leg.

2008-04-10T22:19:00.002-05:00

Getting the job done. Chelsea vs Fenerbahce comments. Second leg.
09.04.08

As Chelsea secured our place in the Champions League semi-final, Michael Ballack and Joe Cole admitted they were more pleased by the result than the performance.

The players were in an optimistic mood as they left Stamford Bridge after a tough game that saw us battle through to a 2-0 win thanks to Frank Lampard's late goal.

But it was Ballack, who had spoken about achieving a perfect start in the game on Monday, who put the Blues in the lead three minutes in with a goal reminiscent of his opener against Olympiacos at the Bridge, which also came inside the first five minutes.
'We started very well. In the first 20 minutes we created a lot of pressure but then we stepped back and they came back into the game, even in the second half they had a good 15-20 minutes,' said Ballack.

'So it was not easy, it was hard work today. But in the end when you see both games I think we deserved to come through,' he added.

Cole agreed with his team mate, and understood that, although they had played well, Fenerbahçe didn't have the extra edge to take them through to the semi-final.

'Attacking wise they were very good, there was a lot of movement in the team and we had to defend well,' said Cole.

'We knew it would be a tough game. Any team that has Zico as a manager and includes players like Alex, Deivid, Kezman, players who have played at the top of their game, will concern you.

'They deserved to beat us in Turkey, we didn't play well, but we were a little bit stronger and more powerful last night and we got the job done,' added the number 10.

But the winning celebrations were short and sweet as the mental preparations began straight away for the semi-final.

'Games are always close in the semi-final, mistakes cost you the game and last year we went out with a penalty shoot-out,' said Ballack.

'They [Liverpool] are very strong, but we have the second game at home, which is a little bit different from last year.

'If you know you have the second game at home, with your fans behind you, it can change the outcome,' added the German.

Source:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/NewsHomePage/list_2209129_0

Chelsea vs Fenerbahce, second leg, Chelsea head through to semi-finals

2008-04-08T23:18:00.001-05:00

Chelsea head through to semi-finals
08.04.08

Chelsea FC secured their fourth UEFA Champions League semi-final berth in five seasons thanks to another of Michael Ballack's early goals and then Frank Lampard's nerve-settling second with three minutes remaining against Fenerbahçe SK.

Nervous finish
Their progression to another last-four meeting with Liverpool FC was achieved moreover with their third-choice goalkeeper on the pitch after Hilário came on for Carlo Cudicini, already deputising for Petr Čech, with 26 minutes played. The replacement responded superbly as the Turkish title-holders, never before European semi-finalists, piled on the pressure until Lampard's coup de grâce.

Ballack heads in
Ballack had been dismissive of the notion that Chelsea could make anywhere near as dynamic a start as they enjoyed against Olympiacos CFP when he nodded in a Lampard cross on five minutes. He underestimated his team's capabilities; this time the clock showed only four minutes as he glanced home Lampard's free-kick with aplomb before wheeling away in triumph.

Cole hits post
It was just the beginning the Londoners wanted and it almost became two as Salomon Kalou set off on a powerful run down the left, angling the ball back for Joe Cole who improvised to stunning effect, stretching out a foot to prod the ball against the post. Avram Grant's Chelsea were buoyant while Fenerbahçe were rocking. Their priority in the short term was not to concede another but they were on the rack and it was fortunate that Edu read the danger signs when Ballack attempted to play in Didier Drogba.

Cudicini off
When allowed the ball, the visitors from Istanbul showed some neat touches but these were only brief interludes in a tidal wave of early Chelsea pressure. However, they could take encouragement from the sight of Cudicini hobbling out of the action midway through the half, seemingly after a muscle pull. That brought understudy Hilário on to the field and he was immediately tested by a long-range drive from Semih Şentürk, preferred up front to ex-Chelsea forward Mateja Kežman. Then, from Alex's free-kick, Lugano rose highest and unchallenged but could not place his header on target.

Essien threat
In a similar right-back role to last week, Michael Essien was again able to push forward and created a number of chances. At the start of the second period he drilled a ball into Drogba who turned swiftly but shot straight at Volkan Demirel. The goalkeeper left his line to chase Kalou for a ball Joe Cole struck just too hard for his colleague and was fortunate that Lugano helped him crowd out the Chelsea forward.

Fenerbahçe hope
That was followed by a neat Drogba-Ballack combination which so nearly put the German player in. A second Chelsea goal looked likely yet until it arrived Fenerbahçe lived in hope and the Stamford Bridge fans remained anxious even though Hilário had still to be seriously tested with an hour gone. Fenerbahçe coach Zico sent on Kežman as his side sought with added urgency the goal that would put them through.

Hilário heroics
Chelsea endured some shaky moments and Hilário scrambled to push away's Gökhan Gönül's deflected volley. He then parried a fierce strike from Kazım Kazım before Essien, who will be suspended for the first leg against Liverpool at Anfield, ended a persistent run with a low cross and Lampard tapped in.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15107/match=301907/report=rp.html

Chelsea vs Fenerbahce, second leg, Grant relief after Fenerbahçe fright

2008-04-08T23:12:00.001-05:00

Grant relief after Fenerbahçe fright
08.04.08

Avram Grant admitted that Chelsea FC rode their luck before reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League. The 2-0 defeat of Fenerbahçe SK, and 3-2 aggregate win, has earned another tie against Liverpool FC. Grant's opposite number, Zico, said that conceding so early to Michael Ballack changed the course of the game but has vowed to build on his club's best-ever European run.

Avram Grant, Chelsea coach
I feel good because our target was to be in the semi-final of the Champions League and we did it. It was not very easy, and I know that in Fenerbahçe we played much better than today. We started well, then it was a little bit of a nervous game but we defended well as they didn't create many chances. But most important was the result, and the result was good for us. I feel this year I am more a doctor than a manager. I have to answer almost every week about injuries, but Hilário was good today and that's very important. When you need the third goalkeeper, and we have needed him this year, he has always done a very good job. It's not easy when you lose a goalkeeper. The news [on Carlo Cudicini] is that it doesn't look so good for the moment but we will have to wait and see. [Michael Essien] will miss the next game [suspended], it's not good but it's a fact and we can't do anything about it.

Zico, Fenerbahçe coach
Obviously we are not happy because we are not satisfied with not achieving things. We conceded early in the game and after falling behind we tried to get the goal back. We couldn't say we are happy to get this far, because we are disappointed. The players showed enthusiasm, discipline and great character, but in the end we are very sorry we cannot continue this journey. The team that started was the one I believed in but obviously we had to make changes as the game progressed. We noticed Chelsea dropping deeper and we had to make the tactical changes to give us more attacking power. We conceded very early and although we knew Chelsea were good with set-pieces and crosses, it was a free header from Ballack. Conceding the goal changed the way the game could go. The one thing we must not forget is that, in order to play in the Champions League next year, we have to be top of our league. This year's games were good experience for us and if you look at all the teams playing in the Champions League, such as Chelsea, Manchester United [FC] and [FC] Barcelona, it can only do our game good to be playing against them

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15107/match=301907/report=rw.html

Ballack demands best from Chelsea. Interview Chelsea vs Fenerbahce Second leg

2008-04-08T01:05:00.003-05:00

Ballack demands best from Chelsea
08.04.08

Chelsea FC saw their challenge ended in games they were expected to win in both English cup competitions this season. By common consent, they are also favourites to come through Tuesday's UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Fenerbahçe SK – and Michael Ballack is determined not to make the same mistake a third time.

'Motivation'
The midfielder says that when they lost to Tottenham Hotspur FC in the League Cup final and to Barnsley FC in the FA Cup, it was through their own failings rather than any superiority on the part of the opposition. The difference against Fenerbahçe is that Avram Grant's men have a second chance. "It was our fault that we lost the first leg," said Ballack, harking back to the 2-1 reverse in Istanbul last Wednesday. "When we play our best football we can win every competition, but we have to show it. That's our motivation."

Attacking approach
After drawing 0-0 away to Olympiacos CFP in the first leg of the first knockout round, Chelsea stormed out of the blocks at Stamford Bridge in the return. Ballack himself scored within five minutes before Frank Lampard made it 2-0 in the 25th minute en route to a comfortable 3-0 win. "If we can start the game like the one against Olympiacos, it would be great, but it's not possible to start every game like this," the 31-year-old said. "We will go out and attack and press our opponents. We have our strategy and will prepare today and tomorrow very well and then we will see what happens."

Remarkable record
Chelsea's remarkable home record – unbeaten in 63 matches in all competitions – and their greater experience, with this being their fourth UEFA Champions League quarter-final in five seasons, point to a likely victory for the Londoners. However, the German international captain senses danger in concentrating too much on those twin assets.

'Dangerous'
"Fenerbahçe have nothing to lose and that makes it very dangerous," Ballack added. "But we can deal with this, as we know these situations where you go into the game as favourites. We saw in the first game that after 45 minutes it seemed it would be an easy win for Chelsea. Then the game changed and we have to stay concentrated all the time. We lost the first game and we have to win this one. I'm very positive we can and I'm looking forward to it."

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15107/match=301907/report=fc.html

Ballack backs Chelsea to turn tie. Preview Chelsea vs Fenerbahce Second leg

2008-04-08T00:58:00.001-05:00

Ballack backs Chelsea to turn tie
07.04.08

Chelsea FC left the Sükrü Saraçoglu Stadium last Wednesday with the sound of the Fenerbahçe SK fans ringing in their ears after the Turkish side came from behind to win the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie 2-1. But Michael Ballack is convinced that things will be very different tomorrow at Stamford Bridge.

Home strength
In the first knockout round, Chelsea welcomed Olympiacos CFP having secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw in Greece and eased to a 3-0 second-leg win. Now Ballack, who helped Bayer 04 Leverkusen overcome Liverpool FC and Manchester United FC on the way to the 2002 final, is confident the London club will make it through. "We are every strong at home, we have a good record at home but we have to concentrate over 90 minutes," Ballack said, before admitting his side ought not to have let a half-time lead slip in Istanbul. "It was important we scored but when you see the game we should have won it. We are disappointed but we have a good chance in the second leg."

Support
That improved chance is partly that on Tuesday it will be the Chelsea fans in the ascendance, as opposed to the ear-splitting support for Fenerbahçe last week. "We saw that against Olympiacos as well, south Europeans are very fanatical supporters," Ballack said. "It's the way they follow their team, it's fantastic for them. But we have a good stadium with a nice atmosphere too."

'In our hands'
It could have been different for the Premier League side as at the break in the first leg it seemed that Deivid's own goal had set Chelsea on the way to victory, and their lead could have been every larger. As it was, Fenerbahçe responded to score twice after the interval to go into the return ahead. "It was a strange game," Ballack reflected. "I played well, we fought well, we controlled the game, we went 1-0 up, and it looked like we would win. But sometimes you do not concentrate for one second and it changes the game. That happened. It is disappointing at the moment but we have to look forward and we have everything in our own hands."

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=680602.html

Ballack: We threw it away Chelsea vs Fenerbahce

2008-04-02T23:15:00.003-06:00

Ballack: We threw it away

(02.03.08)

Michael Ballack could not hide his frustration at seeing Chelsea slip to a late 2-1 defeat to Fenerbahce.

The Blues had been coasting in the first leg of their quarter-final clash against the Turkish outfit, before slipping to defeat.

Deivid's early on goal put Chelsea in front, but second half efforts from Colin Kazim-Richards and a wonder goal by Deivid capped a remarkable turnaround.

"We're very disappointed. We had a big chance to win here. It shouldn't happen," he told Sky Sports.

"We gave them a chance to come back. We're very disappointed because we didn't play badly in the second half.

"Even at 1-1 we had two good chances to score the second goal. Me and Didier had chances to score a second goal. It was our fault.

"We threw it away. It was a good game. We controlled the first half. We didn't concentrate enough. We have to concentrate for 90 minutes.

"Everything is in our hands. We need to win to return leg."

Link to the video:

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid958992159/bctid1485315973

Source:
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3377914,00.html

Deivid crowns Fenerbahçe fightback Report and Photos Chelsea vs Fenerbahce (02.04.08)

2008-04-02T23:08:00.004-06:00

Deivid crowns Fenerbahçe fightback
(02.04.08)

Deivid's spectacular long-range strike nine minutes from time gave Fenerbahçe SK a UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg win over Chelsea FC which had seemed most unlikely when the same player scored an early own goal.

Tide turned
Chelsea, with three victories at this stage of the competition in the last five seasons, had looked in control after that opening gift. But having been under pressure for much of the first half, the knockout phase debutants responded after the break and London-born substitute Kazım Kazım turned the tide with a neat left-footed finish. Sixteen minutes later came Deivid's moment of redemption, leaving next Tuesday's return match at Stamford Bridge perfectly poised.

Wide men
The expectation surrounding the biggest European night in their 100-year history had Fenerbahçe fans thronging outside the Sükrü Saraçoglu Stadium from early afternoon and, by the kick-off, fervent would be a severe understatement of the atmosphere. With the hosts' regular full-backs Gökhan Gönül and Roberto Carlos absent through suspension and injury respectively, Chelsea manager Avram Grant opted to test their replacements, Önder Turacı and Gökçek Vederson, by deploying Florent Malouda and Joe Cole in advanced wide roles. The Englishman had an early chance but Volkan Demirel was wise to his chip.

Own goal
In fact it was Malouda, making his first start since 8 March, who created the opening goal. The French international, chasing a clever Frank Lampard back-heel, cut his cross back in the area and Deivid turned the ball inside his own near post. Remarkably, for the third consecutive UEFA Champions League game here, the visitors' breakthrough goal had come from a home player. Michael Essien, starting at right-back for Chelsea, then advanced forward and his powerful drive skimmed the crossbar.

Drogba threat
Former Chelsea forward Mateja Kežman cut an isolated figure as Fenerbahçe's lone striker, although a Mehmet Aurélio centre flew just behind him in the box. By contrast, his busy counterpart Didier Drogba headed Essien's delivery narrowly wide and also stung Volkan Demirel's hands with an angled shot. Home midfielder Claudio Maldonado was having to spend much of his UEFA competition debut in defence, while Carlo Cudicini, continuing in the Chelsea goal for the injured Petr Čech, had a more straightforward first period.

Revamp
Fenerbahçe looked more dangerous early in the second half when a testing Önder Turacı cross somehow eluded captain Alex. Drogba replied in kind, again forcing Volkan Demirel to save, before Zico decided to revamp his attack with the introduction of Kazım Kazım. A well-worked corner ended with Kežman's overhead effort being blocked by Cudicini, but again Chelsea moved forward and Lampard's teasing free-kick was nodded over by Ricardo Carvalho.

Equaliser
Volkan Demirel dived to stop Michael Ballack's attempt from distance, and in similar circumstances Alex made Cudicini work. Soon after, the Italian was finally beaten as a superb Mehmet Aurélio pass from halfway sent Kazım Kazım clear – the substitute coolly controlling the ball and driving it into the net to level matters. Ballack nearly restored the Londoners' lead, but again Volkan Demirel was in the right place.

Winner

Unsurprisingly, the volume inside the arena was now ear-splitting and Deivid was unlucky not to turn it up further as he just misjudged an acrobatic strike similar to the one that stunned FC Internazionale Milano on Matchday 1. Yet something more spectacular still was coming, a shot from 30 metres that swerved beyond Cudicini's dive to give the Turkish title-holders their fifth successive home win in this season's competition and the edge in the tie.

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/fixturesresults/round=15107/match=301906/report=rp.html

Ballack's chinese chat

2008-04-01T22:27:00.004-06:00

Ballack's Chinese chat

Posted in Mariana's forum: http://iloveballack.proboards74.com/

Thanks to ballack13.cn

There were a chat wit Micha yesterday.

Welcome. The questions and answers will appear here, you do not need to refresh the page.

(13:07:57) Bayern Munchen. When you leaved FC Bayern, why you choose Chelsea?

(13:07:57) Michael Ballack: Because I played four years for Bayern, winning the double three times. I wanted a new challenge, and to play in a new country. Chelsea have grown up quickly, and have a very good team, the target is to win the Champions League, and the Premier League is a big challenge for me. They won the league title twice, so it was a very good team to come to.

(13:09:42) Ballack-Lampard.What’s your view on Frank Lampard, your teammate and partner in midfield?

(13:09:42) Michael Ballack. He is a very good player, played here a very long time, and scores a lot of goals. It is very exciting to play together.

(13:10:19) Goal!! You've got 4 goals in Barclays Premier league this season, so when is the next? (13:10:19) Michael Ballack I hope in the next game against Middlesbrough on Sunday!

(13:11:24) Premier League. Do you think the Premier league is very strong physical challenge? (13:11:24) Michael Ballack. Yes, of course, it is the way to play in England. Traditionally it is very tough and physical. I think the referees don't blow so quickly for fouls, so you can be more aggressive in challenges, so the game is more physical, and the game goes from end to end.

(13:13:13) b13gogo. English football league don’t have winter break, player should play at Christmas and new year, do you feel problem for the schedule?

(13:13:13) Michael Ballack: No, it is traditional here, and you have to adapt, but you know when you come to England that you have to play in the winter. It is a hard time, especially at the end of December and January with a lot of games, but it is ok. Over Christmas it is a little unusual, but it is ok.

(13:14:46) Chelsea fan. Are you enjoy Chelsea fans' passion and what do you think about Chelsea fans?

(13:14:46) Michael Ballack: I think the fans are very close to the team and supprot us very well, not just at Stamford Bridge but also away. They are very loud and travel a lot, it is never empty there, that's what we need, support from the fans. This is also not just in the good times but the bad times too.

(13:15:58) Coco. Do you believe Chelsea can beat ManUtd and win the premier league? (13:15:58) Michael Ballack: Of course we can beat them, but the table shows they are five points up and are very strong at the moment. Even if we beat them at home they are two points ahead, so we have to wait for them to drop points. They are very consistent, so we have to wait and win our games. Tehre are just seven games left but we still believe in it, and can win every game, which is what i think we need to do.

(13:17:09) Sheva7 What you view about Shevchenko?

(13:17:09) Michael Ballack: He is a nice guy and a good friend of mine. It isn't an easy time for him because he has had a difficult injury, but I hope he can come back soon because he is a very good player.

(13:18:17) Ballack 13 why? Why you choose the number 13, It seems not a very lucky number?

(13:18:17) Michael Ballack: Yes, that's true, it is not a lucky number, but I don't believe in such things. At Leverkusen, I could choose between 13 and 15, the last player who used 13 was Rudi Voller, who was a tough act to follow, but I asked him and he said I could have it. I played well, so kept it until now!

(13:19:22) Play13. In addition to football, what is you hoby?

(13:19:22) Michael Ballack: My family, I have three boys, which is tough enough. Sometimes I play golf, I have a handicap of around 20, and sometimes billiards at home. We have a pool table at the training ground, and I lost in the competitition!

(13:20:56) Manager. You work with so much excellent manager, who is the most important for you?

(13:20:56) Michael Ballack: That's true, I had the privilege to work with a lot of good managers over my whole career, and that is important at a young age. When i came to Leverkusen at 22 I trained under Christophe Daum, who was a very good trainer for me, so i learned a lot from him and could grow up. But it is difficult to say one or two, because i worked with a lot! You learn from every coach all the time.

(13:22:14) Maradona. Diego Maradona visited Chelsea this season, what's your view about the Argentina legend?

(13:22:14) Michael Ballack: He is a legend, you said it! He had some problems in the past with his life, but he is still a legend as a player, and that's what is in the mind of the people. When you see him he has a special aura, and I played against him in a friendly match with Lothar Matthaus. It was unbelievable when he went on the pitch and did his tricks on the ball. I was just 21 at the time, it left an impression on me for sure.

(13:22:38) FM Will you become a football manager after you retired from professional football? Or anything else?

(13:22:38) Michael Ballack: I don't know now, I have some ideas but it's nothing to speak about for now.

(13:23:53) Singer. What's your most favorite song, and who's your favorite singer?

(13:23:53) Michael Ballack: I like some German music, Xavier Naidoo, and I like pop. At the moment I listen to everything, no favourites. When I came to Chelsea I had to sing a song for my initiation, it was an Austrian ski song!

(13:25:08) 2002: You played the 2002 Champion League final, but unfortunate lose to Real Madrid. So do you hope to win the champion league this year?

(13:25:08) Michael Ballack: Yes, of course. It is always disappointing to lose a final because you can't play it again. I am still waiting for this title, which is why I came to Chelsea. I want to win with this strong team. Last year we were close to the final, but sometimes you need luck and I hope we have this this year. We need to play well in the right moment, so hopefully it is this year.

(13:26:22) Turkey. How you rate the Fenerbahce, Chelsea's next opponent in Champion league? (13:26:22) Michael Ballack: It is not an easy draw. People think we are clear favourites, but you have to be a strong team, Fenerbahce is a tough place to go, one of the best atmospheres in Europe and they have a lot of international players, so it will be hard. But, we have the advantage of playing the second game at home, we know what we have to do. We are looking forward to the game, it is a nice draw because we haven't played Fenerbahce in the past, so it will be very interesting.

(13:27:39) Semifinal. Which team do you prefer to play against if Chelsea finally win the quarter-final matches with Fenerbahce? Arsenal or Liverpool?

(13:27:39) Michael Ballack: It is difficult to say, both teams are in good shape. We don't have good experience with Liverpool so we have to balance the history and win the game. We have to think about Fenerbahce now though, I don't like to look too far ahead, so we must concentrate on the next game.

(13:29:38) Sun. What's your view on Sun Jihai, defender of Man City.

(13:29:38) Michael Ballack: He is a good defender, I think he has had a few problems with injuries in the past couple of seasons, so hasn't played as much as he would like.

(13:31:11) Visit China. Chelsea will visit China this summer, would you like to say something to your Chinese supporter?

(13:31:11) Michael Ballack: We are looking forward to going, I have never been to China. As a footballer I have travelled a lot, but never to China. I hope we have good possibilities to train, and the supporters can visit and enjoy watching us play. I am sure there will be a friendly atmosphere, and it is always exciting to go somewhere new.

(13:31:50) China. China play against German in 2005 at Hamburg, and German won 1-0, any impression with China football team?

(13:31:50) Michael Ballack: I didn't play in that game but I watched it on TV, Frings scored a penalty to win the game for us. It was a difficult game, and China were an impressive team.

(13:33:17) German. Do you believe German can win the Euro tournament 2008?

(13:33:17) Michael Ballack: Yes, we believe it. We haven't had good results at hte last two European Championships, but did well in the World Cups. We are in good shape and qualified very early. We have a good team, but there are many teams that can win. It is very tough to win this tournament, some people think that it is harder to win this than the World Cup.

(13:34:35) World Cup 2002. All of your fans will not forget your great performance in World cup 2002, but it was a huge pity that you lost the chance to play in the final just because of the yellow card. So do you ever regret for the card you got in the semi-final?

(13:34:35) Michael Ballack: Of course I wanted to play the final, but it was a situation where I had to make the fuol. Their player was in front of the goal, and if he passed me he was free, so it was a tactical foul. I did it for the team, and I knew if we were in the final, I would miss out. But I knew I could still score in that game and help the team get to the final.

(13:35:47) 2010. Do you wish to lead German to win the FIFA world cup 2010?

(13:35:47) Michael Ballack: Yes, I am 31 now, that is in two years, so I will still want to play. I haven't been to South Africa before, so it would be good to play there too.

(13:36:26) Friend. Who is you best friend in national team? Klose?

(13:36:26) Michael Ballack: I played a long time with Bernd Schneider, and Oliver Neuville, who isn't in the squad at the moment, but he may join us for Euro 2008.

(13:37:19) Best of best. In your opinion, who is the next best player in the world: C. Ronaldo or Messi or Kaká or someone else?

(13:37:19) Michael Ballack They are all world class players, there is not one I could pick out. They all play differently, and offensive players are always under more focus than defenders. There are many good players in the world, and these three are among them. You can't say one is the best.

(13:38:18) Zidane. What about Zidane,French playmaker?

(13:38:18) Michael Ballack He was one of the best players in the world, and if you saw him play, he was at one with the ball.

(13:39:30) Premier League. Is the Premier League best all aound Europe?

(13:39:30) Michael Ballack I think at the moment you have to say yes. When you look at the last two years there were four teams in the Champions League quarter-final, and dominate the European game. At the moment I think it is definitely the best league in the world.

(13:40:50) Michael Ballack: Thank you for all your questions, I now have to go and have lunch. I hope to see you next summer in China!

Source:
http://iloveballack.proboards74.com/index.cgi?board=news&action=display&thread=1185820475&page=17

Match report Chelsea 0 vs Barnsley 1

2008-03-10T19:12:00.002-06:00

Match report Chelsea 0 vs Barnsley 1
08.03.08

Chelsea suffered a massive shock to the system in Saturday tea-time's match in Yorkshire, going down to a second-half goal against a spirited side from the Championship.

Avram Grant made six changes to the side for this quarter-final. Lampard and Drogba were absent so there was room for a return to midfield for Shaun Wright-Phillips and Anelka played up front. The full-backs were rotated from the Olmypiacos game, Belletti and Bridge selected, but Terry and Carvalho were maintained in the centre.

Chelsea had lost to lower division opposition in the FA Cup for the first time since 1995, and the first time since 1992 without a penalty shoot-out.

Line-up:
Chelsea (4-3-3): Cudicini; Belletti (Pizarro 74), Terry (c), Carvalho, Bridge; Wright-Phillips, Essien, Ballack; J Cole, Anelka, Malouda (Kalou 62).
Booked Carvalho 90.

Barnsley (4-4-2): Steele; Van Homoet, Foster, Souza, Kozluk; Devaney (Togwell 72), Hassell, Howard (c), Campbell-Ryce; Odejayi (Coulson 10), Ferenczi.
Scorer Odejayi 65.
Booked Kozluk 55.

Source Chelsea FC oficial website
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_6

Ballack: On top form

2008-03-08T11:12:00.003-06:00

Ballack: On top form
Sat, 8th Mar 2008

Michael Ballack is expecting a difficult trip to Yorkshire today, but is confident that if we play to our best we will eliminate Barnsley.

The Germany captain has scored in each of our last two games, and has drawn praise for his performances in the midfield alongside Frank Lampard. Whether Avram Grant chooses to give the pair another outing today remains to be seen, but Ballack is confident we are back to our best after Carling Cup heartache a fortnight ago.

'We are very happy since the defeat against Tottenham. We are a good team with good character and we showed we can deal with the pressure. We have the experience and players for these situations,' he said.

It was Ballack's early goal that put us in command against Olympiacos on Wednesday, a moment that proved decisive in the outcome of the game. A repeat today would be the perfect start.

'It's always good if you can score in the first few minutes, it gives a good direction to the game,' he said, before acknowledging that visiting Oakwell is unlikely to be as straightforward as Wednesday night.

'It's not easy, especially after they won against Liverpool,' he explained. 'Of course it's a different game, we play away from home, and we showed in the past we can beat teams away and we have a strong enough squad. Cup games are always difficult, so we need our fans and we will see.

'We know what is expected of us, and we want to get to the final as well. We won it last year and we're trying again, but it should be very difficult. We have to show the same attitude as Wednesday and if we do this we should be in the next round.'

Source Chelsea FC Official website
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_0

Avram’s declarations

2008-03-08T11:09:00.002-06:00

Avram’s declarations
07.03.08

…
'Since I am here, you always find me two players that cannot play together, you say Ballack and Lampard cannot, and they played together and played well.

'I don't think it can be a problem, and you will see it in the future. I don't think if you win you cannot be also better. I will continue to think like this, and one of the options is this option, but it depends on many other things.'

As for Ballack, Grant has been pleased with the German's recent form, and believes he is benefiting from a change in footballing style.

'I think the different style of football is good for him, and good for the team. We play with many attacking players that know how to move the ball and pass the ball,' said the Israeli.

'He is one of them, so it's easier for him. He is an intelligent player and knows modern football. I don't compare to the past, I look to the future.'
…

Fuente en inglés WEB oficial del Chelsea FC
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_2

Ballack hails Lamps link-up. German pleased with partnership

2008-03-08T11:04:00.003-06:00

Ballack hails Lamps link-up.

German pleased with partnership
06.03.08

Michael Ballack believes his partnership with Frank Lampard is going from strength to strength.
The two Chelsea midfielders are considered very similar in style and questions have been raised about whether they can work in tandem.

However, they have been paired together in the last two matches and both have scored each time.

Ballack feels an understanding is developing and hopes Avram Grant will continue to select him alongside Lampard.

"It's getting better from game to game," said the German. "I had a long injury before and he had one as well.

"It looks good at the moment in the last games and I hope it will still be going in the next weeks."

Happy
…

Ballack accepts that competition for places is fierce but he is satisfied with his own form and hopes to keep the likes of Michael Essien waiting in the wings.

He said: "I'm happy with my game at the moment. Everyone wants to play so it's not easy for the coach.

"That is always a point, the balance of the team. Especially in midfield where we have good players - Michael Essien and John Obi Mikel - we have a lot of possibilities. It's a good squad."

Ballack missed out against Tottenham in the Carling Cup final but he is not dwelling on Grant's decision.

He added: "It's over, it's in the past and you have to look forward. I am looking forward."

Fuente:
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3250665,00.html

Wait and see, Ballack interview

2008-03-08T10:45:00.006-06:00

Wait and see
06.03.08

After last night's comprehensive defeat of Olympiacos, Michael Ballack and Didier Drogba believe we have the quality to go all the way in the Champions League.

First half goals from Ballack and Frank Lampard had given us what looked like an unassailable advantage before Salomon Kalou confirmed the victory early in the second half.

It was our second convincing win in a matter of days following the 4-0 win at West Ham…

This meant another opportunity to witness Ballack and Lampard together in midfield, and they controlled the game, laying on goals for each other in the process. It was a performance that satisfied the German.

'We are happy we are in the next round and played a good game from the start. It was good to score early and that was very important today,' he said.

Now into the last eight, and with the possibility of teams from England constituting half that number, Ballack admits he would rather avoid our Premier League counterparts.

'It's always good if in the Champions League if you can play teams from other countries, but if every English team goes through you will play each other, so we will see,' he said.

'We have a good team, and have a possibility to reach the final or win the Champions League. We have to think from game to game and show that we can win the Champions League. There are more games, but we have the experience.'

Source Chelsea FC Official website:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_0

Chelsea keen to avoid all-English tie

2008-03-06T22:48:00.001-06:00

Chelsea keen to avoid all-English tie
06.03.08

Having lost to Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in two of the last three seasons it is perhaps unsurprising that Chelsea FC's players spoke as one in their hope that next week's draw for the last eight keeps them apart from their Premier League rivals.

Kalou optimistic
A 3-0 defeat of Olympiacos CFP left Avram Grant's men looking ahead with confidence and Salomon Kalou, who scored his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal in tapping home the third, believes they have the team to go on and lift the trophy for the first time. "It's no point talking about it, we have to deliver on the pitch, but if we can do that then we can go through to the final," said the Ivory Coast striker. "I think it would be better to keep the English teams for later in the competition – it's better to meet another opponent at the next stage."

Lampard resolute
Frank Lampard, who laid on the night's early opener for Michael Ballack before slotting home the second himself, believes the quality of Chelsea's performance as they extended their run of unbeaten games at Stamford Bridge to 60 in all competitons, should enhance their belief that they can take on any of the remaining seven contenders. Lampard said: "All the games in the quarter-finals will be tough so we'll have to sit back and wait for the draw and hope that whoever we get we are able to perform like we did tonight because on that form we can beat anyone."

Useful pairing
The ease with which Lampard and Ballack dovetailed was the perfect response to those who say the pair of outstanding midfielders cannot operate in tandem. "I think that's three times we've played together this season and every time it's worked pretty well," added the England international. "Any talk like that is just people trying to make an issue when there isn't one. I feel great, my form has been good all season and I've come back very fresh after the two injuries I've had. Now I'm looking forward to the last part of the season."

English success
John Terry believes that the appearance of three Premier League sides – it will become four should Liverpool FC successfully defend their 2-0 advantage away to FC Internazionale Milano next week – is testament to the calibre of the English game. "They are all great sides who can pass the ball and mix and match it with any team in the world," he said. "Hopefully we can avoid them next time but if we are drawn together we have to beat them. We've missed out in this competition on a few occasions and we want to make the final step and get our hands on the trophy."

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=668886.html

Olympiacos skipper rues knockout blow

2008-03-06T22:42:00.003-06:00

Olympiacos skipper rues knockout blow
06.03.08

Following their 3-0 defeat by Chelsea FC – which ended their participation in this season's UEFA Champions League – Olympiacos CFP midfielder Predrag Djordjević acknowledged the "key moment" in the game happened as early as the fifth minute.

Game planChelsea's Michael Ballack gave the hosts the lead to throw Olympiacos's game plan – which coach Panagiotis Lemonis revealed was to be as defensively tight as possible for the first 20 minutes – out the window. From there it proved to be a difficult night for the Greek Super League champions, so Djordjević pinpointed Ballack's strike as the catalyst for their exit at the first knockout round stage. "The key to the whole game was the opening goal in the first ten minutes," the 35-year-old said. "From there, we tried very hard but could not get back into the game."

Tough propositionThe London team turned out to be a much tougher proposition at home than the Piraeus club faced in the goalless first leg, and the Serbian playmaker could only underline how hard it was after falling behind so early, saying: "Chelsea are a very strong side and although we put in as much effort as we could, we could not create the chances to turn the match around."
…

Source:
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=668848.html

Minute detail Chelsea 3 vs Olympiacos 0

2008-03-06T22:36:00.003-06:00

Minute detail Chelsea 3 vs Olympiacos 0
05.03.08

Champions League 2nd leg against Olympiacos at Stamford Bridge.

Line-up:
Chelsea (4-3-3) Cudicini; Ferreira, Carvalho, Terry (c), Cole; Ballack, Makelele, Lampard (Essien 76); J Cole (Wright-Phillips 79), Drogba, Kalou (Malouda 70).
Manager Avram Grant

Olympiacos (4-5-1) Nikopolidis; Zewlakow, Antzas, Julio Cesar, Pantos; Torosidis (Sisic 76), Patsatzoglou, Ledesma (Belluschi 53), Stoltidis, Djordevic (Leonardo 57); Kovacevic.
Manager Panagiatos Lemonis

Minute detail.

5 CHELSEA GOAL Ballack gets his head onto the end of a Lampard cross and smashes the ball into the back of the net.

25 CHELSEA GOAL Lampard makes it two after Nikopolidis fails to gather a Ballack shot and the ball rebounds into the path of the number 8 who taps the ball beyond the line for our second.

48 CHELSEA GOAL Kalou makes it three from a corner as the ball flies beyond the reach of Ballack after Drogba heads it goal-ward from the near post, Kalou then slots the ball homes as it spins into his path.

Comment

The win against Olympiacos takes it to 60 games unbeaten in all competitions at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea played a convincing game, controlling possession throughout and comfortably securing our place in the nest round of the Champions League.

Didier Drogba made his 50th appearance in the European competition when he started against the Greek champions while Ricardo Carvalho made his 150th appearance for the Blues.

The 3-0 result means Chelsea have scored 7 goals in five days after their 4-0 thumping of West Ham on the weekend.

Source Chelsea FC Official website:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_3

Match report

Chelsea will play in the quarter-finals for the fifth time in six Champions League campaigns after a straight-forward victory.

Safe passage to the last eight never looked in doubt from the moment Michael Ballack nodded a fourth minute opener. With Olympiacos falling well below the standard of their non-stop vociferous supporters, Frank Lampard and Salomon Kalou put the result beyond all doubt.

The only blemish on a comfortable night was three bookings suffered when the score was already 3-0. It will be hoped those don't come back to haunt us.

Given short to Lampard, his cross found Ballack at the near post to head home with his marker trailing in his wake. As at the weekend, the two world-renowned midfielders had combined to great effect.
…

Lampard, with characteristic anticipation, was on hand to capitalise when the keeper spilled Ballack's shot after Makelele and Terry had headed the ball back towards goal. Think Frank's goal in the famous win here against Barcelona for a comparison. Like Ballack, his was his first in the Champions League this season. With 24 minutes gone, the tie was all but over.

A barnstorming run down the inside left channel by John Terry looked to have presented Ballack witb a golden chance for his second from the edge of the box but the German missed his kick, Joe Cole's follow-up travelling well over.
…

Source Chelsea FC Official website:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_1

2008-03-01T23:01:00.001-06:00

Reaction: Back on track
01.02.08

Having overseen our best ever result in a fixture at West Ham, Avram Grant was understandably a happy man.

The 4-0 score line achieved today after goals from Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Michael Ballack and Ashley Cole eclipses last season's 4-1 win, and keeps us in touching distance of league leaders Arsenal, who could only draw against Aston Villa this afternoon.

Having seen a disappointing performance from his side at Wembley last week, Grant was impressed with how the team responded today, controlling the game from start to finish, despite the dismissal of Frank Lampard in the 35th minute.

'I think we played very good, we used our chances in the first half, and made some more. Again, many goals from combinations, so I like it,' Grant said.

'In the second half, we played with one man short but were very clever and controlled the game. They created not even one chance. We needed to play a little bit differently on the tactical side and I think we did it very well,' he added.

It was a feeling that fits in with Grant's overall assessment of his side since he took charge in September.

'I cannot judge the players only from one game, good or bad, but I can see in the last five or six months the players gave more than 90 percent good performances. Also, [there have been] a lot of wins, so this makes me happy,' he said.

Grant elected to leave Didier Drogba on the bench throughout the game, possibly with one eye on Wednesday's visit of Olympiacos in the Champions League, and his explanation for this decision seems to have been justified given the resounding nature of victory.

He said: 'I will not speak about the players that are not playing. Didier is a great striker, but it can't be a question of those who are not playing. I give my respect to all the squad, and he has been very good for us in the past, and he will be in the future.

'My reason for the team that played was that it could win the game. I am thinking of more than one game.'

The main talking point to result from the game was Lampard's sending off, the second of his Chelsea career. Grant's focus was on another second, the number of instances assistant referees have made big decisions against us in the last seven days.

'It's the second week the assistant referee made a decision. Last week the referee was five metres away from the penalty and an assistant twenty metres away gave the decision.

'This week the assistant said Frank slapped the face of Boa Morte. If it's true I think the rule is a red card, if not maybe someone else needs to get a red card, but I must admit I didn't see it. If the assistant referee is right, it's a red card,' the Israeli conceded.

Lampard will now miss three domestic games, with his return being the home Premier League game with Arsenal, who are now just a point clear at the top, after Manchester United's win at Fulham.

Grant's take on the title race is that there is still plenty of distance left to run, and that Chelsea are by no means out of it.

'I think we are in the title race all the time. In the last three or four months we were, and we need to keep on,' he stressed.

Next up for us is the Champions League on Wednesday and then FA Cup action at Barnsley, before recommencing league duties at home to Derby on March 12.

Fuente en inglés WEB oficial del Chelsea FC
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_0

Match report Chelsea 4 vs West Ham 0

2008-03-01T22:51:00.005-06:00

Match report Chelsea 4 vs West Ham 0

Ballack scores as Chelsea storm Upton Park
01.03.08

Chelsea have gained ground on league leaders Arsenal today. The Gunners only drew 1-1 with Aston Villa, while the Blues won 4-0 away from home in the London derby with West Ham - even though Frank Lampard was dismissed in the first half. Michael Ballack went the distance - and scored Chelsea's third with less than half an hour gone.

This third goal put the finishing touches on opening minutes that saw Chelsea run rampant. Less than 180 seconds had passed when Nicolas Anelka found the target, only for the referee to rule him offside and don't allow the goal to stand. It was not a correct decision, but Chelsea could live with it as the goals soon started coming anway. First the Hammers' Anton Ferdinand brought down Salomon Kalou in the box and Lampard converted the ensuing penalty (17'). Then Joe Cole scored a nice goal to increase the led (20'), before Ballack found the target with a fine volley from a Lampard cross (22').

Those three goals in five minutes pretty much decided the encounter, even though West Ham were handed a lifeline after 36 minutes: there was a scuffle between Lampard and Luis Boa Morte and the linesman deemed a shove from Lampard to constitute violent conduct. He alerted the referee to the situation and Lampard was red-carded. It was a harsh decision, even West Ham's coach Alan Curbishley later said so.

Still, even with ten men Chelsea never really ran into trouble. In the second half, John Terry cleared the ball off the line after Carlton Cole had lobbed Petr Cech, but apart from this chance the hosts rarely created opportunities. On 64 minutes the game was over as a contest when Joe Cole's attempt at goal was parried only for Ashley Cole to put the rebound away from a tight angle to make it 4-0.

Fuente en inglés, página oficial de Michael Ballack:
http://www.michael-ballack.com/?103A0A2A100A0A9579

Line-up
Barclays Premier League, Saturday March 1st 2008 at Upton Park, London.

West Ham United (4-5-1): Green; Neill (c), Ferdinand, Upson, McCartney; Faubert(Solano 65), Mullins, Noble, Ljungberg; Boa Morte (Ashton h-t); Cole (Zamora 65).
Manager Alan Curbishley.

Chelsea (4-3-3): Cech; Ferreira, Carvalho, Terry (c), A Cole; Ballack, Makelele (Alex 83), Lampard; J Cole (Essien 68), Anelka, Kalou (Malouda 74).
Manager Avram Grant

Source Chelsea FC Official website:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_2

First, after 16 minutes, Lampard fired home a penalty in front of the Bobby Moore stand after Salomon Kalou had been clumsily tripped inside the area by Anton Ferdinand.

On 19 minutes it was two. Anelka laid off, and Joe Cole fired a low left-footed drive beyond Green into the far corner. Respectfully, the winger chose a muted celebration at his old stomping ground.

Within a blink of an eye Ballack had made it three, with a mirror of Cole's effort, after Lampard nonchalantly crossed with the outside of his right foot.

Source Chelsea FC Official Website:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_1

All change for Avram Grant as Chelsea try to get final loss out of their system. Preview Chelsea vs West Ham

2008-02-29T19:24:00.004-06:00

All change for Avram Grant as Chelsea try to get final loss out of their system
Preview Chelsea vs West Ham
29.02.08

In what may be viewed as a tacit admission that he made mistakes in his tactics and team selection for the Carling Cup final defeat by Tottenham Hotspur, Avram Grant is likely to make several changes for tomorrow’s Barclays Premier League match against West Ham United.

The Chelsea first-team coach has experimented with several systems in training this week and is considering switching to a 4-1-3-2 formation, which would enable Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka to play alongside each other as a true strike partnership for the first time.

Grant will not name his side until after the squad’s final training session today, but there are certain to be changes from the side who were beaten at Wembley last weekend. Michael Ballack is likely to be first beneficiary.

Top of the pots

Four of the top ten earners in the world game play for Chelsea, according to France Football magazine’s annual estimates of player salaries. Kaká, of AC Milan, and Ronaldinho, of Barcelona — both Brazilians — head the list, followed by Frank Lampard and John Terry, of Chelsea, who are the highest-earning Englishmen. In addition to Michael Ballack and Andriy Shevchenko, the other Chelsea representatives, three more Barclays Premier League players are in the top ten — Fernando Torres, Cristiano Ronaldo and Steven Gerrard. Ronaldo’s will improve once he has renegotiated his contract.

Top ten earners
Kaká (AC Milan) £6.6m

Ronaldinho (Barcelona) £6.31

F Lampard (Chelsea) £6.04

J Terry (Chelsea) £6.04

F Torres (Liverpool) £5.86

A Shevchenko (Chelsea) £5.77

M Ballack (Chelsea) £5.77

C Ronaldo (Man Utd) £5.69

T Henry (Barcelona) £5.69

S Gerrard (Liverpool) £5.69

Source:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/chelsea/article3455942.ece

Interview: Ballack happy to change to succeed

2008-02-27T13:17:00.002-06:00

Interview: Ballack happy to change to succeed

Michael Ballack is determined to prove why he shunned the good life at Bayern Munich for the challenge of English football.

The Germany captain was vilified during his first season at Chelsea when he struggled to adapt to the pace and strength of the Premier League.

Ballack was just beginning to find his best form when an ankle injury robbed him of a place in the FA Cup final last season and left him sidelined for eight months.

Now he is hoping to put all that heartache behind by playing against Tottenham in the Carling Cup final at Wembley on Sunday.

Ballack declared: "I had some ups and downs and a long injury as well. After the injury I had to start again.

"Eight months is a long time. I want to show in the next weeks and months why Chelsea bought me. It is not easy if you change country.

"It is not an excuse. I am happy with my play. In the first year, Chelsea had a different style of playing.

"I came from Munich and in Munich I was the main player. Here we have a lot of big players so my style and the way of playing changed a little bit.

"Chelsea won the title twice and you have to adapt and change. Every player needs time. Now I am here and everybody gives the ball to me.

"Everybody wants to play well and you want to prove yourself.

"I got a lot of criticism especially in the first months but I know what I can do.

"I know I am a good player. You don't become a bad player overnight. It is all about the team and how to learn playing with Chelsea.

"The first year was getting better for me. I had some good games but then I got injured and had to start again.

"But I am happy now. I see also that it is getting more difficult because we have a lot of good players. But I was very focused and I could deal with the criticism."

Ballack never had any fears that he would not return from the ankle problem that put him out of action for eight months but knew the longer it went on the more frustrated he became.

He added: "I know some players who were injured for over a year and may have had that mind set but mine was too short.

"It was frustrating for me and difficult not to make big steps forward after six months. But I never thought I would not come back."

Coach Avram Grant is full of praise for the German midfielder and accepts that, after his injury, they need to keep him fresh.

He said: "Michael Ballack was injured a long time. It was not easy. We need to keep him fresh all the time. We don't play him a few games in a row as he is dangerous.

"He is a very intelligent player with a good commitment to the game. It is his life. He has a lot of qualities and that is the main thing that is important. As long as Michael Ballack is not lazy it is good for the team."

Source:
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/chelsea/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/02/23/SOCCER_Chelsea_2nd_Nightlead.html&TEAMHD=chelsea&DIV=prem&TEAM=CHELSEA&RH=Chelsea&PREV_SEASON=
cf. http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11668_3189339,00.html

Ballack: Grant gave no reason for dropping me (Carling Cup final Chesea vs. Tottenham)

2008-02-27T13:07:00.004-06:00

Ballack: Grant Gave No Reason For Dropping Me

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack was not happy at being benched for the Carling Cup final, especially since the Blues lost the game and he was offered no explanation by Avram Grant

In The Dark

"I am not happy that I did not play," said the former Bayern Munich man, who only came on as a sub in the 88th minute. "But I have to accept it like everybody else who did not start," Ballack told the London Evening Standard. "It was not explained, it was on the team-sheet shortly before the game and that was it."

Moving On

Nevertheless, the midfielder is determined to put the incident behind him and focus on picking up trophies in FA Cup, Premiership and Champions League. "We have to keep going in the other competitions," he said. "We still have a strong team and good chances to win the Champions League. Okay, in the Premier League we are nine points behind Arsenal, but we still have hope and we have to remember that and concentrate. We have to start again."

Best Team Won

As for yesterday's game, the German admitted to being bitterly disappointed with the result, but reasoned that after the way Chelsea performed they got what they deserved. "We didn't start very well yesterday and couldn't control the game," he noted. "Tottenham looked sharper. We did too little to win a final. Now we have to think about why we didn't win and do better in the future."

Goal.com UK: http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=599037

Source:
http://www.iloveballack.popstory.com/cnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1203979446&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&
Cf. also
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/chelsea/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/02/25/manual_123324.html&TEAMHD=chelsea&DIV=prem&TEAM=CHELSEA&RH=Chelsea&PREV_SEASON= and http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11668_3193545,00.html

Chelsea lose League Cup final in extra time

2008-02-27T13:01:00.001-06:00

Chelsea lose League Cup final in extra time

Sunday 24.02.08

Three set pieces led to the goals scored in today's League Cup final between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, and since two of them found the Blues rueing their bad luck, the defending title-holders were on the losing end after extra time. Didier Drogba brought his side ahead on 37 minutes, Michael Ballack's former Leverkusen team-mate Dimitar Berbatov converted a contested penalty for handball to tie the game (69'), and in extra time Jonathan Woodgate scored the 2-1 winner after a free kick, even though Petr Cech had beaten him to the cross (94').…

The Blues, who started without Michael Ballack, finally made their presence felt with half an hour gone. A few minutes later Ballack came on for Michael Essien, then the referee ended the 90 minutes. Extra time it was.…

Source, Michael Ballack’s official website:
http://www.michael-ballack.com/?103A0A2A100A0A9563

Chelsea (4-3-3): Cech; Belletti, Carvalho, Terry (c), Bridge; Essien (Ballack 87), Mikel (J Cole 98) Lamp; Wright-Phillips (Kalou 71), Drogba, Anelka.
Gol: Drogba 37.

Third time lucky

2008-02-22T13:23:00.002-06:00

Third time lucky

Fri, 22nd Feb 2008

Michael Ballack has missed our two previous visits to the new Wembley, so cannot wait to be involved in Sunday's Carling Cup final against Tottenham.

The German midfielder damaged his ankle against Newcastle last April, and was eventually out for some eight months, long enough for him to sit out the FA Cup final and the Community Shield, both against Manchester United.

Now though, he is fit again and desperate to be a part of Avram Grant's team to face Spurs.

'It is exciting for me, because I didn't play before, so I hope I can play on Sunday,' Ballack said.

'You never know when you will be injured, and that was the worst time, three weeks before the end of the season, with the Champions league semi-final and the final of the FA Cup, it was very disappointing for me.'

Ballack has now played 12 times since recovering from his ankle injury, including his first Champions League appearance of the season after being named in the 25-man list for the closing stages of the competition.

'We know it is not easy because in the end we have to concentrate and focus a little bit more. I was in Leverkusen in 2002 in four competitions, and each time second place, because we tried to win everything and in the end we won nothing, so you have to be careful.

'It is very difficult, but it is a dream to win all four titles. I am happy to play for a club that tries to win all competitions. It's good to play in the Carling Cup as well, and we always play with a very strong team which is very good.'

While he hasn't yet played at the new Wembley, also missing Germany's friendly with England in August, Ballack was in the national team that played in the last game before the stadium was rebuilt, a 1-0 win he remembers well.

'It was great because we knew it was the last game, and it was a good win, but this stadium is amazing. I was there at the FA Cup final to watch the game, and was on the pitch.'

This time he will be hoping to be on the pitch again, but in a more involved capacity as we chase our fifth League Cup crown.

Source Chelsea FC Official WEB
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/ArchiveNews/list_2210603_2

Ballack: Lampard Is Not 'Untouchable'

2008-02-22T13:15:00.002-06:00

Ballack: Lampard Is Not 'Untouchable'

21.02.08

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has warned team-mates Frank Lampard and John Terry that the ‘Untouchables’ are a thing of the past at the club.

Previous Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho introduced the notion of the 'Untouchables' at Stamford Bridge, in relation to a select band of players who were virtually guaranteed a starting place in the first XI if fit.

Current manager Avram Grant, though, left England pair Frank Lampard and John Terry out of Chelsea's midweek draw with Olympiakos, opting to ease them back selectively after injury.

Lampard said on Wednesday that he hoped Grant would not choose to do the same on Sunday when picking his Carling Cup Final team to play Tottenham Hotspur.

While the prospect of leaving out Lampard and Terry, two of his untouchables, would not have arisen under Mourinho, Grant has proved to be his own man.

And German midfielder Ballack is keen to stress that nobody is now ‘untouchable’ under Grant's competitive regime.

“John and Frank have been injured for a long time and Olympiakos was a big game,” Ballack told The Sun.

“I’m not sure if anyone is untouchable now. They are both still very important players for us but you have to be careful after injuries.

I know this, having had eight months out. It’s not easy when you come back – you can’t play every game straight away. The coach knows what he’s doing.”

Mark Hinton, Goal.com

Source:
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3175831,00.html
and http://goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=594099
and http://www.iloveballack.popstory.com/cnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1203629219&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&

Ballack Wary Of Olympiacos

2008-02-22T13:04:00.003-06:00

Ballack Wary Of Olympiacos

Chelsea midfield anchorman Michael Ballack is not convinced that the hardest part is over for the Blues after their 0-0 first leg draw at Olympiacos in the Champions League knockout stage...

The former Bayern man rued the fact that his team were unable to carve out too many chances for that all-important away goal, but feels that home advantage could see the tide turn.

He told UEFA.com, "I expect another very difficult 90 minutes in the second leg as they showed today that they are a good team.

"If one team makes a mistake it could be crucial.

"But we are very strong at home and we will take more risks. I think we will see a more attacking Chelsea when we meet Olympiacos again.

"It's always better when you score an away goal and the tie at the moment is still dangerously balanced."

Accounting for the 0-0 draw in Piraeus, he continued, "The defences and midfields of both teams were very organised so there were not many chances in the game.

"Perhaps if we had taken more risks then maybe we could have created more opportunities, but in the end we finished with a clean sheet which is good for us. You think that this is an easy place to come to but in reality it's not."

The 31-year-old reflected on coach Avram Grant's decision to leave the newly-recovered English international duo of John Terry and Frank Lampard on the bench.

"They have been injured for a long time and it was a big game," he said.

"You have to be careful with injuries – I know because I was out for eight months. When you come back you can't play every game straight away. You need a little rest when you return and I think we have a good enough squad to deal with this."

Steve Michaels, Goal.com:
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=592621

Source:
http://www.iloveballack.popstory.com/cnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1203545116&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&

Match report: Chelsea vs Olympiacos (Thrusday 19.02.08)

2008-02-19T19:05:00.004-06:00

Match report: Chelsea vs Olympiacos (Thrusday 19.02.08)

Chelsea's return to Athens ended in stalemate as Avram Grant's men denied Olympiacos a lead to defend at the Bridge in a fortnight's time.

The cold weather may have been unexpected but hot support from the Greek fans was not.

Essien, selected in midfield with captain Makelele and Ballack, fired a shot across Greek bows after only 30 seconds, the ball travelling well wide.

On 84 minutes, Ballack turned and fired in a 20-yard shot at the keeper. It was the German's last touch, exchanged for Lampard with four minutes remaining on the clock.

Chelsea (4-3-3) Cech, Belletti, Alex, Carvalho, A Cole; Essien, Makelele (c), Ballack (Lampard 86); J Cole (Anelka 74), Drogba, Malouda (Kalou 74).
Booked Alex 34, Belletti 55, Makelele 62, A Cole 90+1.

Source:
http://www.chelseafc.com/xxchelsea180706/index.html#/page/Homepage/article_1245504

Grant kept the faith in those players who survived unbeaten through difficult weeks when the squad was stretched to its limits, notably Michael Ballack, who played some of his most effective football since moving to Stamford Bridge in Lampard's absence, and Alex.

Source:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=516491&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Chelsea coach Avram Grant took a massive gamble in leaving both captain John Terry and midfielder Frank Lampard on the substitutes' bench against the Greek champions.

Source:
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/chelsea/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/02/19/SOCCER_Chelsea.html&TEAMHD=chelsea&DIV=prem&TEAM=CHELSEA&RH=Chelsea&PREV_SEASON=

Grant said: "I know who will play, how we will play, and who will be on the bench.
"I take all the decisions based on what is the best for the team. Always in Chelsea there will be big players on the bench or not playing. This is life of a manager and of the players. I think it is good for them."

Source:
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/chelsea/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/02/19/SOCCER_Chelsea_Team.html&TEAMHD=chelsea&DIV=prem&TEAM=CHELSEA&RH=Chelsea&PREV_SEASON=

Preview: Chelsea vs. Olympiacos (18.02.08)

2008-02-18T20:53:00.002-06:00

Preview: Chelsea vs. Olympiacos (18.02.08)

Didier Drogba has been declared fit to face Olympiakos but Andriy Shevchenko has been left out of the squad that travelled to Greece.

Michael Ballack also travelled with the rest of the squad that arrived in Athens on Sunday night but it remains to be seen if the German international will figure following his recent injury problems.

Fuente:
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/articles/694678.html

Chelsea coach Avram Grant insists he will not rest until he has led the club to Champions League glory.

"Chelsea are a big club already but if you want to be a really big club and bigger than we are now, we need to be in the final of the Champions League and then do more and more" said Grant.

But Grant still has to grapple with the thorny issue of whether Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard can play alongside each other in midfield and how to accommodate Didier Drogba and new £15 million signing Nicolas Anelka in attack.

"This is what is exciting about football. We have good players and take the best of them. Everybody asks me if Anelka can together with Drogba and if Ballack can play with Lampard. Two good players can always play alongside each other if they are ready to work for the team”.

Fuente:
http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5imr9tAx2RfaphwpZxt03hGryZxAQ

Chelsea boss Avram Grant is likely to stick with a 4-3-3 formation for Tuesday's Champions League last 16 first leg match against Olympiacos.

Didier Drogba or Nicolas Anelka are poised to lead an attack flanked by Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Michael Essien is set to be handed a defensive midfield role with Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack given another chance to shine in midfield together.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Ferreira, Belletti, Terry, Alex, Carvalho, Ben-Haim, A Cole, Bridge, Essien, Lampard, Ballack, Obi, Malouda, Wright-Phillips, J Cole, Kalou, Anelka, Drogba.

Fuente: http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/02/18/SOCCER_Chelsea.html&TEAMHD=premiership

Lampard makes history, Chelsea go through (Chelsea vs Huddersfield 3-1)

2008-02-17T13:27:00.001-06:00

Saturday, 2008-02-16

Lampard makes history, Chelsea go through

Thanks to a 3-1 victory over Huddersfield Town at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea are among the last eight in the FA Cup. "We missed so many players but we stayed in all competitions", coach Avram Grant said about how his team has hung in there despite so many injury woes this season. There were some players missing against Huddersfield as well (among them Michael Ballack), but this time it was because Grant gave some regulars a rest. No longer missing is John Terry, who made his comeback against the Terriers - yet the hero of the match was someone else.

Frank Lampard (pictured) scored this 100th and his 101st goal for Chelsea, thus becoming one of only eight players in the club's history who scored in triple figures for the Blues. It became obvious how much this meant to Lampard, when he later revealed a shirt under his kit that stated the goals "are all for you! Thanks."

Source, official Website Michael Ballack:

http://www.michael-ballack.com/?103A0A2A100A0A9532

Preview: Chelsea vs Huddersfield

2008-02-15T22:41:00.004-06:00

Chelsea (from): Cudicini, Cech, Hilario, Ferreira, Belletti, Terry, Carvalho, Ben-Haim, Alex, A Cole, Bridge, Essien, Lampard, Sidwell, Mikel, Malouda, Wright-Phillips, Pizarro, Anelka, Drogba, Kalou, J Cole, Sinclair.

Don't appear Michael Ballack in the formation.

I think and I hope that Ballack will play tomorrow.

Source:

http://www.iloveballack.popstory.com/cnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1203124898&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2

Ballack flourishing at Grant's Chelsea

2008-02-15T16:09:00.002-06:00

Ballack flourishing at Grant's Chelsea
Nick Bidwell

'You have the feeling you've become a forgotten man and you have to start again from scratch after your return from a long injury,' begins Ballack. 'There is a need to prove yourself all over again, but all the frustration is history now and I can look forward with confidence.

'I knew I would not be certain of a place in the side when I returned from injury. When you are at a big club like Chelsea and the competition for places is always so hot, the only answer is to deliver consistently and I'm confident I am up to the task. I'm pleased Avram Grant is putting his faith in me, but it's not written in stone that it will be always so. He has so many good options in midfield that no one can be sure of selection.'

'Naturally I'm very pleased with the way my return to the first team has gone. It makes all the difference in the world that I stepped into a side in an excellent run of form.

'From day one, it felt so good to be back and I've been fortunate to score a few important goals, which is a massive bonus. Even though I'm not sure about my match fitness percentage-wise, I'm feeling stronger physically and mentally every day. I think the bad days are behind me now.'

...

'Being made Chelsea captain was a real honour for me,' he continues. 'I must admit I didn't see it coming because the captain's armband isn't often given to a foreign player. It's a great boost to my confidence, recognition of my place at the club and my performances.

'Of course, I'm not a warrior like John Terry and he will take the armband back as soon as he is fit again, but I love being the captain. I can only do this job by staying true to my personality. I like to lead by example and at Bayern and with Germany and it's proved successful.

'When you've been out injured for some considerable time, you look for things to help you get back into the groove and the coach's decision to make me captain has undoubtedly worked in that sense.'

...

Source:

http://www.iloveballack.popstory.com/cnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1202773897&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&

Exclusive interview with Michael Ballack, part 2

2008-02-15T16:01:00.004-06:00

Wednesday, 2008-02-06

Exclusive interview with Michael Ballack, part 2

Webteam: How do you stay in touch with home? For instance, do you use the internet more often than before because you want to learn about what's going on in Germany?

Michael Ballack: Not more often than before, no. We can watch German television and buy German newspapers. What might happen is that I can't find a particular paper, then I'll read this edition online.

Webteam: And what about your own homepage?

Michael Ballack: Oh, I visit that a couple of times per week. After all, I want to know what people are thinking. It's always exciting to read the forum or the guestbook. Sometimes there's criticism voiced, which I think is good, actually, because everyone is entitled to an opinion and should make it heard. And then others will take the floor and defend me. I think that's very interesting.

Webteam: On the occasion of your comeback you said that the encouraging postings in the guestbook were a great help.

Michael Ballack: That really gave me additional motivation. After all, the support of the fans is particularly important during difficult times. It's good to realise that people don't forget you even when you're sidelined for a longer period of time.

Webteam: We've been talking only about yourself so far, but you have taken a family with you to England, and for them this was a big change. Has the family settled down now?

Michael Ballack: Oh yes, my family feels very comfortable here. The two older boys, for example, go to an English school, not to a bilingual one for foreigners. My family is now at home here.

Webteam: Do you still follow the tourist routine, such as going to Madame Tussauds and the Tower and so on?

Michael Ballack: We haven't yet been to the wax museum. That is, I have been there before, together with the Bayern squad. But we do go for trips and try to include the sights in the planning. For example, there are very nice restaurants near Tower Bridge, at the Thames. So you can go out to eat and at the same time see a bit of the city.

Webteam: And what about the numerous sporting events in London? To name just one, have you been to the Wimbledon tennis tournament last year?

Michael Ballack: No, I haven't been to see the tennis in Wimbledon. I might do it this year. The last really big event which I attended was the so-called "Race of Champions" at the new Wembley Stadium, the week before christmas. That's a spectacular motorsport event which is held every year. Michael Schumacher was racing, David Coulthard and many other famous drivers.

Webteam: At the Wembley Stadium? Where you're going to play the Carling Cup final?

Michael Ballack: The cars weren't racing on the pitch, obviously, but on a tarmac track. When we'll be lining up there, the playing surface is going to be in a top condition.

Webteam: Thanks a lot for the conversation, Michael - and all the best for 2008, both at your club and with the national team!

Source, official website of Michael Ballack:
http://www.michael-ballack.com/?103A0A2A100A0A9497

Exclusive interview with Michael Ballack, part 1

2008-02-15T15:48:00.010-06:00

Thursday 05.02.08

Exclusive interview with Michael Ballack, part 1

Webteam: Hello Michael! It's taken us quite a long time to get here from the airport. The traffic is insane! Have you gotten used to that by now?

Michael Ballack: Well, yes. You quickly learn to always take traffic jams into account, and then you leave home a lot earlier than normally necessary. But that's what it's like in a big city like this one. That comes with the turf.

Webteam: And driving on the left? Did that take some adjusting to?

Michael Ballack: Not at all, actually. They say you'll only have a problem once you get back to Germany and drive there, and that's also been my experience. As regards driving on the left, you have much more difficulties as a pedestrian here! It's so ingrained in us to first look left when crossing a street that changing this habit isn't easy. Over here, I take the first step, then I remember I should have checked the other side - and by that time the bus is already right in front of me!

Webteam: We've crossed almost the whole city today, from north to south. And we noticed how many quiet, almost rural areas there are.

Michael Ballack: That's true. There are very beautiful corners in the North and the North-West and down here, in South London, it isn't at all hectic, either. But that also goes to make up a big city - that it's got everything. There are a lot of parks even in central London, where you can find peace and quiet.

Webteam: Do you go looking for peace or do you prefer to have fun?

Michael Ballack: Both. The great thing about such a metropolis is that you can always go out. The cultural offers are immense. And you don't have to wait until the weekend to find something interesting. Over here, you could enjoy yourself every single day.

Webteam: And it's probably a lot easier for you to go out than it used to be the case in Germany.

Michael Ballack: No, you can't say that. Actually, it's not at all different from what it was like in Germany. That's precisely because London is such a cosmopolitan city. You'll meet people from all over the world wherever you go, and many of them know who I am and will recognise me after all.

Webteam: Do you have any time to explore the city? After all, you play a lot more games with Chelsea than you were used to from the Bundesliga.

Michael Ballack: Well, there aren't really that many more games, as I usually had two matches per week in Germany as well. And when I was injured, for instance, I had a lot less spare time than I have now. That's because under those circumstances you normally spend more time at the training ground than your team-mates. So the number of games isn't a problem, apart from the fact there is no winter break in England. That means the season is very long and you need to have a large squad. But we have that.

Webteam: Nuremberg's coach Hans Meyer recently suggested the Bundesliga should get rid of the winter break. You're in a position where you can draw comparisons between England and Germany, what do you think about this question?

Michael Ballack: I think the best solution would be to emulate the Spanish. That means having a brief break of ten to fourteen days. That would be ideal. I don't mind playing all through the season - but taking a short time off for christmas and New Year, this is something I'd welcome.

Webteam: As a professional in England, it's indeed impossible to spend that time of year with your family. For instance, what did you do on New Year's Eve?

Michael Ballack: We played Fulham on January, 1st. So I spent New Year's Eve in a hotel. At first I was unaccustomed to the fact seasonal family parties will have to be cancelled. But that's what it's like, you have to live with that.

(The second part of the conversation will be published tomorrow)

Source, Official Website of Michael Ballack:
http://www.michael-ballack.com/?103A0A2A100A0A9476