Source: SKY_Sports
Ballack expects title charge
Michael Ballack is tipping Chelsea to wrestle the Premier League title away from Manchester United this season.
The Blues have seen the Red Devils take the crown on three consecutive occasions since they lasted tasted domestic glory back in 2006.
Much has changed at Stamford Bridge since those heady days under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, with Italian tactician Carlo Ancelotti set to make his bow in English management this term following a period of serious instability in west London.
Few fresh faces have been added to a playing staff which could only muster a third place finish last season, with Yuri Zhirkov, Ross Turnbull and Daniel Sturridge the only new arrivals.
Worryingly for Chelsea it is the future of their skipper John Terry which continues to dominate the headlines, with Manchester City keen on the England international.
However, midfield powerhouse Ballack is confident the club have the squad to challenge for honours next term and is backing the Blues to end United's reign at the summit in 2010.
Target"It is our target every year to win the league and we are confident about winning the title," said Ballack, quoted in the London Evening Standard following his appearance at a Chelsea charity event, Right to Play, in Wentworth.
"I think we had a good season last year, but United have played at a really high level the last few years.
"They made it really difficult for us to win the League in 2007 and 2008, but we were really close behind and last season we also finished behind Liverpool, who had a strong season.
"There are a few moments which decide every championship but we are confident it will be different next time. We have a very experienced squad."
Ballack added: "We haven't added a lot of new players, so we don't need much time to get into our rhythm."
