The German captain, a recipient of a nasty tackle on his right ankle by Kevin Prince Boateng during the FA Cup final over the weekendwill not be participating in the World Cup. MRI scans showed partially torn ankle ligaments which require strict immobilization for the next four weeks. He will be given a CAM boot to wear for the next four weeks to progress to the next level in his rehabilitation. We are looking at a three to four month layoff.
Probably the last World Cup we would have seen Michael Ballack in action. His experience and set piece expertise will be missed. 42 goals in 98 caps is a very good return rate.
Ballack established his credentials in the 2002 World Cup leading Germany to the finals which he did not play due to suspension. He made the All Star team. Ballack made it again to the All Star in the 2006 World Cup with highlight performances against Ecuador and Argentina.
Who will be his replacement?
Sami Khedira as first alternate playing alongside Bastian Schweinsteiger. Joachim Low could be tempted to call up Torsten Frings, who is not part of the provisional squad but this injury could force a call up for the Werder Bremen captain. Frings is one of the most experienced national players having seen duty in the 2006 World Cup where he gained a reputation for tough tackling.
Germany’s next captain could be either Schweinsteiger or Philip Lahm, both have been important members of Bayern’s outstanding season and have considerable national experience.