Ballack doubt for Germans

Michael Ballack has emerged as an injury doubt for Germany ahead of tomorrow's World Cup second-round match with Paraguay.

Michael Ballack has emerged as an injury doubt for Germany ahead of tomorrow's World Cup second-round match with Paraguay.

The midfield star missed training yesterday after suffering a delayed reaction in his calf following Germany's win over Cameroon on Tuesday.

Ballack faces a final fitness test tomorrow morning before the game in the Jeju World Cup Stadium, but coach Rudi Voller is optimistic he will be able to play.

"I talked to him this morning and he has some calf problems," said Voller.

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"He can't do the sprinting that he wants to and we hope one or two days' rest will do the trick.

"Our medical and physio staff are working flat out to get him okay for tomorrow and he will have a final fitness test prior to the match."

Germany are already without Dietmar Hamann, Christian Ziege and Carsten Ramelow because of suspension.

PA