Ballack returns to training

[BlueLion. 21,491]

Michael Ballack returned to training with the squad on Wednesday, as they returned for a first session after the US Tour.

Ballack had been forced to fly home from Seattle on the first leg of the trip due to a toe injury, but linked up with his team-mates after they had enjoyed a day off on Tuesday to recover from the jet lag incurred after the long flight home from Dallas.

Carlo Ancelotti had plenty of running in store for the group, but there was also time for some more enjoyable group games, while Christophe Lollichon took his goalkeepers on a short run before working on some reflex exercises.

Michael Mancienne was missing from training due to illness, but is expected to return shortly.

From the official site.

[warnie_666 1,081]

Looks like no one is interested....

[Alee. 182]

22 Views 1 Reply says it all

[Steve 10,227]

It is good news, we need as much depth in the squad as we can this season. Don't forget even when he is not playing it is good to have him around to teach others. He has been in the game as long as anyone. Lets gets him fit for the season now.

[TylerCFC 7]

I read it already on a German website so I didn't feel the need to comment right away. That being said he'll come back and quietly go about doing his business and playing where asked. Good man Michael.

[Term-X 7,891]

but if he had singed here for 30m everyone would be rooting for him

he's done a much better job here than sheva, but everyone loves sheva.

[warnie_666 1,081]

he's done a much better job here than sheva, but everyone loves sheva.

You wouldnt have said that had we got Ballack for 30million.

[BlueLion. 21,491]

I don't get all the Ballack bashing. He's one of the most effective players in our midfield; he was played out of position all season, yet he didn't moan once. He played to the best of his ability in a deeper role, adding a lot of backbone to the midfield, and still managed to score 4 goals for us; 3 of which en route to winning the FA Cup.

[Steve 10,227]

I don't get all the Ballack bashing. He's one of the most effective players in our midfield; he was played out of position all season, yet he didn't moan once. He played to the best of his ability in a deeper role, adding a lot of backbone to the midfield, and still managed to score 4 goals for us; 3 of which en route to winning the FA Cup.

Could not of said it better myself. Ballack is one of my favorite players, he always gives his all.

[diskoviolente 425]

Thanks, BL.

I think there is still a good amount of years left for him to win things. If he is playing in his position look what he is capable of - United 07/08 game at the Bridge, and all the other teams he destroyed nearly on his own.

And he is a good penaltytaker

[BlueLion. 21,491]

He was so productive under Grant, because Avram basically played both he and Lampard as attacking players, with Mikel or Essien holding. Hiddink did the reverse, and played two holding players, meaning Ballack wasn't played in his strongest position. However, in both roles he showed his usefulness - his ability to create and score as an attacking player, and his ability to deny the opposition space and time in a more defensive role. He's a useful player to have around. Plus he always works his socks off, and never stops running.

[Kez 2,727]

I think he still has alot to offer us tbh.

[Rambo 1,729]

Ballack can still play.