Chelsea Football Club News

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

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Ballack winning fitness battle

04 Aug 2009 - 11:22:27

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Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is winning his battle to be fit enough to feature in Sunday's Community Shield clash against Manchester United.

The Germany international was forced to return to London in the early stages of last month's pre-season tour of the USA with a fractured toe.

However, he has made a quicker than anticipated recovery from the problem, with Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti saying: "For the next match against United he will be ready.

"I have more or less the team that will play in my mind.

"We have this week before the game and I want to control the physical condition of all my players.

"We have to improve a little over the next week but I'm happy with the condition of the team."

Meanwhile, Chelsea have refuted reports suggesting they are contemplating selling Joe Cole to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Blues said of the former West Ham United star who is currently recovering from a knee problem: "Chelsea is not, and will not be, considering any offers for Joe Cole.

"Our sole focus, as is Joe's, is to get him fit as soon as possible."