Voeller wants Ballack in Euro team
BERLIN, Germany (Reuters) - Germany coach Rudi Voeller is expecting Michael Ballack to overcome fitness worries to inspire Germany in their decisive Euro 2004 qualifier against Iceland in Hamburg.
The Bayern Munich midfielder was hoping to train for the first time this week after resting a sore ankle and Voeller said he wanted him to lead Germany through to next year's finals in Portugal.
"Ballack has to act not only a football player but also a leader," Voeller said.
"His presence on the pitch is extremely important."
Germany top Group Five, two points ahead of second-placed Iceland, and need a draw in the game to secure direct qualification.
Ballack has been struggling with his ankle injury for a couple of weeks and Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge suggested he should not play on Saturday.
But the 27-year-old, whose playmaking skills are vital to the three-times world and European champions, said he could not imagine missing the game.
Voeller said he was convinced Ballack would rise to the occasion despite his fitness problems.
"He has to cope with it and he will, simply because he's one of the best midfielders in the world," Voeller said.
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