Sunday, October 26, 2008

Michael Ballack Apologizes for Criticizing Joachim Loew on Unfair Treatment to the Seniors During Euro 2008

German captain Michael Ballack has recently apologized for his comment made on Coach Joachim Loew criticizing his unfair treatment to the senior members of the Germany squad during Euro 2008 tournament. However, the German captain has now realized that the comment he made on Loew has put his future in German national team in jeopardy. He has already apologized for his behavior publicly and to Joachim Loew over the telephone on Saturday. The two will meet in the next seven days to have a conversation on the issue.

In an interview with German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) last week, Michael Ballack criticized Loew stating that there were some experienced players like Torsten Frings, Miroslav Klose and himself in Germany’s Euro 2008 squad and he thought the experienced members deserves at least some respect and loyalty, given their contribution and achievement for Germany. However, the German captain has recently said that he did not have any intention to attack Joachim Loew and there was nothing personal. He has claimed that he was trying to protect and support the fellow seniors in the team.

AFP reported:

"I must acknowledge it was unfortunately an error to chose this way (to communicate)," Chelsea midfielder Ballack said in a statement.

"I will meet with Joachim Loew as soon as my health allows and I will apologise to him for my behaviour……..

"I telephoned Jogi Loew again on Saturday and said it was never my intention to criticise his work as national team coach, but primarily to protect and support my fellow players in a difficult situation," said Ballack.

"I have a high opinion of Jogi Loew as a coach and a person.

"Comments in the interview were made due to the situation and were not meant to be personal.

"I did not want to attack anyone, but to openly address and criticise issues which were close to my heart.

"But I do not stand by the contents of that interview any more."

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is now recovering from a recent surgery on his foot. So, he is currently out of action for few weeks and will need some time recover fully before returning to action. However, Germany coach Joachim Loew has clearly indicated that Ballack’s future in the team now depends on the conversation they will have in near future.

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