Frings rules out Germany return

20 May 2010 12:59

Torsten Frings would not return to the German national side even if coach Joachim Low were to call him up as a replacement for the injured Michael Ballack.

Frings was informed by Low in January that he would no longer be considered for selection to the national team, effectively ending his international career at the age of 33.

Frings told the Bild newspaper: "I simply don't have any faith in the national team coach anymore."

Frings added: "That has not changed after the tragic injury to Michael Ballack either. Therefore, whatever happens, I am not available."

The chances of Frings being handed a call-up were already slim, with Low declaring on Tuesday that he was satisfied with the squad at his disposal, even in the absence of national team captain Ballack.

Nevertheless, Ballack himself believes Frings could do a job for the team.

"The decision is up to Jogi Low at the end of the day, but I can understand there being speculation about Frings," the Chelsea midfielder said.

"You can always rely on Torsten."

Source: PA