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Ballack keen to regain captain's armband

17 Aug 2010 - 18:02:19

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Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Michael Ballack has warned his international team-mate Philipp Lahm that he still intends to captain Germany in their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

The 33-year-old former Chelsea star missed this summer's World Cup with an ankle injury, allowing Lahm to take the captain's armband.

Lahm went on to lead a young Germany side to the semi-finals in South Africa and has said he is keen to hang on to the responsibility.

However, Ballack things otherwise, telling ESPN Soccernet: "Philipp's remarks were not warranted, even though the timing of his remarks was unfortunate because I was out injured and could not mount my own defence.

"Still, players can't tell the coach where to pick them and the same applies to the captaincy. You have to respect the hierarchy and, when we next meet up, I will talk the matter over with Philipp.

"For me, the matter is clear - I am the captain of Germany and intend to take on the role again when I am fit. I can't wait to lead Germany into the Euro 2012 qualifiers and make a success of it. I believe in myself as the captain and think I have the personality to do it.

"Missing this year's World Cup due to injury was a real blow and there is no way I am about to settle for a final curtain like that. I am still hungry and, when you are sidelined at just the wrong moment, you become even hungrier."