Michael Ballack Strains Calf, Misses Training

Germany captain Michael Ballack has been forced to miss the nation's training session just four days prior to the commencement of the World Cup. The injury has forced the 29-year-old midfielder to miss several days of a recent training camp in Geneva, Switzerland.

As CNN reports, "The problem then was an ankle strain and he was unable to play in the friendly against Luxembourg, although he returned to face Japan and Colombia in the final two warm-up games."

The reports of his injury were met by a spokesperson for the German Football Association, who was quoted by the BBC as saying "It's precautionary because the players will be doing sprints in the main session." As well, Ireland On-Line quoted DFB spokesperson Harald Stenger as saying "Michael Ballack stayed in the hotel and received treatment for a right calf strain. With the team practising sprints today, it was decided to give him a rest and not to risk anything."

There has not been any statement as to if Michael Ballack will miss the host nation's World Cup opener against Costa Rica in Munich on Friday. As reported by Reuters, "Ballack has scored 31 goals in 65 internationals and his form and fitness are crucial to Germany's chance of a home success in the tournament, which runs until July 9."

In a bit of good news for the World Cup's host nation, all of the other 22 members reported for practice, and are said to be in perfect health.

After Germany kick off the world cup with their match against Costa Rica on June 9th, they will face Poland in Dortmund on June 14th and Ecuador in Berlin on June 20th in other Group A matches.

[Additional Sources: CNN, BBC, Ireland On-Line, Reuters]