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Euro 2008 - Ballack doubtful for final

Eurosport - Sat, 28 Jun 18:58:00 2008


Germany captain Michael Ballack is doubtful for Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain because of an injury to his right calf.

Ballack missed training on Friday back at the team's base in Tenero and he was unable to join the eve-of-match session at the stadium in Vienna on Saturday.

"Michael Ballack has not been able to train the past two days," Loew said.
"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."

The 31-year-old midfielder has scored two goals during the tournament and was at his commanding best in the 3-2 win over Portugal in the quarter-finals.
He was less impressive against Turkey in the semi-finals but his absence would be a huge blow to the German team, who are bidding for their fourth European Championship title.

"Despite everything I'm hoping he will play," Loew said.

"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."

If Ballack does miss the game, Loew could choose Tim Borowski as a straight replacement or rejig his midfield completely.

"Our medical team will be working with him round the clock but we have to think seriously about alternatives," Loew said.

"We could play with Borowski or (Bastian) Schweinsteiger in his position."
Ballack has never played in a major final for Germany. He missed the final of the 2002 World Cup through suspension and was part of the team that lost the 2006 semi-final to Italy.

Reuters

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