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Ballack ready to play

09 Jun 2006 - 10:13:10

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Germany captain Michael Ballack has declared himself fit to start Friday's World Cup curtain raiser against Costa Rica.

Coach Jurgen Klinsmann announced on Thursday that a calf injury would prevent the Chelsea midfielder playing in Germany's first Group A fixture, but that he expected him to be ready to face Poland and Ecuador.

However, Ballack is determined not to miss the showpiece occasion, having been forced to sit out the 2002 World Cup final because of suspension.

"I am fit, I want to play. I am ready and without problems," the 29-year-old told Bild.

"Whether I will be playing or not is up to the national team coach."

Klinsmann was planning to use Tim Borowski in Ballack's attacking midfield role against the Ticos, but may now opt to revert to his normal starting line-up.