Ballack return put back
16 Oct 2007 - 12:58:45
Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is unlikely to return to action before the end of the month, according to German national team doctor Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt.
The 31-year-old has not featured in the Blues first team since the goalless draw with Newcastle United in April because of a niggling ankle injury.
It had been thought that Ballack would be able to return to Chelsea's first team this weekend, but Muller-Wohlfahrt is more circumspect.
He said: "In close agreement with the English doctors, I think he will be training again in the foreseeable future.
"I think it will be a few weeks."
However, Germany's general manager Oliver Bierhoff was shocked by the news, telling Bild: "I am surprised about the statement (of Muller-Wohlfahrt).
"Two days ago I spoke with Michael on the telephone and he sounded very optimistic."
Meanwhile, reports suggest Ashley Cole could be forced to spend three months on the sidelines after sustaining an ankle injury in England's victory against Estonia on Saturday.