Scolari concern for Ballack

Midfielder suffers ankle injury in opening win over Pompey

Last updated: 18th August 2008

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Ballack: Injury concern

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Luiz Felipe Scolari is hoping Michael Ballack did not suffer a serious injury in Chelsea's 4-0 win over Portsmouth.

Ballack picked up a knock to his ankle at Stamford Bridge and was replaced before half-time having earlier created the opening goal.

He appears doubtful for Germany's friendly with Belgium in midweek and is also fighting to be fit for next week's Premier League trip to Wigan Athletic.

The midfielder missed a chunk of last season with an ankle problem and Scolari is hoping for positive news on the 31-year-old.

Difficult

"He played very well, but he had some thing with his ankle and it was impossible to continue," Scolari told Sky Sports.

"Now, we have to send a letter and to discuss Ballack with (Oliver) Bierhoff and Joachim (Low, Germany coach), and the national team from Germany because it's impossible for the doctor to say that it is a problem or not for the future.

"We hope that next Wednesday or next Sunday he's in condition to play, but I think it's difficult."