Germany captain Ballack set for return against Poland

By Barry Whelan Jun 12, 2006, 13:17 GMT

Berlin - Germany captain Michael Ballack is set to return for the hosts against Poland on Wednesday.

Ballack trained with the rest of the team on Monday for the first time since the squad set up base in Berlin a week ago.

'Ballack will play,' said assistant coach Joachim Loew. 'We are pleased to have him back because he will give the team more quality.'

The 29-year-old midfielder pronounced himself recovered from a calf injury which left him sidelined for Germany's 4-2 victory over Costa Rica in the World Cup opening game last Friday.

'I was glad to be able to train with the team at last and am looking forward to the match on Wednesday,' Ballack said.

The captain's return is a boost for the hosts ahead of the Group A match in Dortmund. Poland, who were defeated 2-0 by Ecuador, are expected to provide a tougher challenge than Costa Rica.

'Ballack raises the overall quality,' said Loew. 'He leads the team and can calm and organize the game in difficult situations. It is important we have his offensive power on the field.'

Ballack said Germany could book a place in the second round with a win over Poland, depending on the other results in the group, but warned the match would be tough.

'Poland are under pressure. There is a bit of disquiet in the country, not just in the team, and they will be on fire to do well,' he said.

'It will be an extremely hard match for us. We have to be prepared for a fight. It is almost an all or nothing game. We want to try to ensure we get into the second round but we know Poland have their backs to the wall.'

Ballack again denied any differences with coach Juergen Klinsmann over his injury amid speculation of a rift following the player's decision to use the media to pronounce himself fit to play the opening match.

'What was speculated or interpreted into this is not my affair,' he said. 'I wanted to play but the trainer said the risk was too great and at the end of the day he has the decision and I accepted it. Now I am looking ahead.'

Ballack said he had wanted to play the opening match in view of its importance for the hosts and the worldwide attention but 'I hope we will have more important games during the tournament than this opening game'.