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Recent squad announcements surrounding the Chelsea side for the Champions Leage Group stage has left out Michael Ballack. Some are baffled, some accept the decision as logical, and others, such as German Head Coach Joachim Low, have felt it necessary to wade in and stir the pot, calling Ballack's future "into question".
Michael Ballack has not put on a Chelsea strip for a match since May 2007 when he opted to fly out of England for surgery on his ankle. His timing was less than optimal - right before the FA Cup Final and the Champions League Semi against Liverpool. Since then he has been recovering from the ankle surgery; Chelsea docs give him at least 1 more month before he is ready.
So when the team was announced for the Champions League Group Stage it was no surprise to some that Ballack's name was not included. There is no guarantee that Ballack will be fit for any part of the Group Stage matches, so why take up a spot with an injured player when there are plenty of fit players available to play.
Others argue that excluding him was a poor decision -- if he is fit for any part of the competition, his experience and strength would be an asset to the team and therefore including him just in case would have been a better option.
Now German boss Low has entered the debate, stating that Ballack is totally confused by the situation. Low even goes so far as to question the intentions of Chelsea bosses and calls into question Ballack's future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea has responded, vehemently denying the rumours.
With Frank Lampard's injury, Ballack would be fantastic to have at hand. But he is injured. When he is fit, he will play. Have no doubt.
Our Verdict: Ballack will just have to wait
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