England giants Chelsea have confirmed that German captain Michael Ballack has been excluded from the squad named for the group stages of the UEFA Champions League. "We can confirm that Michael Ballack has not been included on the list for the group phase," a statement on the club's official website said on Monday. “Unfortunately Michael's current injury meant, at the time of the squad submission deadline, we could not guarantee his availability for the majority of the group phase game." The 30-year-old midfielder has been ruled out with an ankle injury and had to undergo a surgery that will keep him out for another few weeks. There has been speculation around Ballack's future at Stamford Bridge as he has been far from his high standards during the past season. Real Madrid have been reported interested in him but Ballack confirmed his commitment for the Blues. “Naturally we hope Michael's recovery is as quick as possible, that he returns to training ahead of schedule and that he will then be available for the latter stages of the competition, should we qualify.”
