Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Ballack blow for Blues

14 Aug 2006 - 08:33:16

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Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho fears summer signing Michael Ballack could miss the start of the Premiership campaign after picking up a hip injury during the Community Shield.

The Germany captain lasted only 26 minutes of the 2-1 defeat against Liverpool, before limping off to join a list of casualties which already included Joe Cole, Petr Cech and Claude Makelele.

"He (Ballack) had a kick in the muscle and he couldn't run but I hope he will be back soon," said Mourinho.

"We have quite a few players not in condition and we need players back, so I hope it's not a big deal."

The Blues boss took the uncharacteristic step of admitting Liverpool had deserved their win at the Millennium Stadium, but insisted the result was no indication of how the title race may go.

"Liverpool had more intensity and pace, qualities that make a team better. They had that and we didn't," added Mourinho.

"We had a big percentage of the ball possession, but Liverpool defended with intensity and looked dangerous when they counter-attacked.

"I keep saying they are a difficult team to beat and they can go to every game with an ambition to win.

"They are a good team but over ten months of competition we will be there."