Chelsea's Michael Ballack has warned former boss Jose Mourinho that his mind games will not work.
German admits competitive reunion will be 'special'
Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has warned former manager Jose Mourinho that his mind games will not work in the UEFA Champions League.
The Portuguese is now in charge of Inter Milan, but has been handed a competitive reunion with his ex-club in the knockout stages of the European Cup.
Mourinho has already started his unnerving tactics ahead of the fixture by claiming he does not need to undertake in-depth research because the Chelsea squad is almost identical to that he left behind in 2007.
Ballack, though, insists the Blues will not be falling for their former boss' tricks in the build-up to the first leg in Italy in February.
Focus
The Germany international said in the
Evening Standard: "It's part of his job (to use mind games) but we're focused on ourselves.
"We haven't spoken much yet about what it will be like to play against him but when the game gets nearer there will be enough going on.
"We know him but he won't be on the pitch so obviously it doesn't help us. It will help them more because he knows all the Chelsea players.
"It is a big draw and will be a tough game against a tough opponent. Everybody likes these games, although it's a bit early to be playing such a big team at the last-16 stage.
"We have one of the best teams but we just have to take it. It will be special for Jose and also for us."
