Ballack doubtful for final

Germany captain struggling with injury

Last updated: 28th June 2008

Ballack doubtful for final

Ballack: Injury worry

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Germany captain Michael Ballack is a doubt for Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain because of a calf muscle injury.

The Chelsea midfielder, who has been in impressive form for much of the tournament, has been unable to train since Friday because of the problem.

Ballack's absence would be a major setback for coach Joachim Low as he looks to guide his side to the Henri Delauney trophy in Vienna.

"Michael Ballack has not been able to train the past two days," Low told a news conference on Saturday.

Problem

"On Friday, he had a problem with his right calf, the muscle has hardened and today he couldn't possibly train so we'll have to see how it develops overnight.

"Despite everything I'm hoping he will play.

"He's the team captain and an extremely important player but if he can't play, someone will replace him.

"We'll have to cope and find a solution. We will find a solution."

"Our medical team will be working with him round the clock but we have to think seriously about alternatives. We could play with (Tim) Borowski or (Bastian) Schweinsteiger in his position."

The DFB said the question of whether he could play was "fully open" with just over 24 hours to go before the final.

The influential Ballack has suffered international heartache before at this stage of a tournament, as he missed the 2002 World Cup final defeat to Brazil through suspension.