German skipper Ballack admits feeling strain of life in the Premiership

CHELSEA midfielder Michael Ballack admits he is beginning to feel the effects of the club’s hectic Barclays Premiership schedule.

Ballack, 30, captained Germany to the semi-finals of the World Cup last summer before making his debut for the champions shortly afterwards.

Ballack’s recent form in the heart of the Chelsea midfield is impressive.

He is beginning to show he can fit into a midfield which already contained England’s Frank Lampard and Michael Essien.

However, with Chelsea’s hectic fixture build-up, Ballack hinted he would not be averse to being rested during the winger period.

Ballack said: “I’m not running on reserve just yet but I have reached my limit in terms of the physical demands. We will see what it is like in spring not to have a winter break.”

Ballack is set to make his 75th appearance for Germany in their Euro 2008 qualifier against Cyprus today and admits he gave up a nice life at Bayern Munich to prove himself at Chelsea.

“The respected and privileged position I carved in Germany is no longer there. Good performances are crucial. But I’m happy that I took that step.”

Meanwhile Chelsea are set to announce the signing of goalkeeper Magnus Hedman as cover for Carlo Cudicini, Henrique Hilario and the injured Petr Cech.

Chelsea will contract the former Celtic goalkeeper until the end of the season.

The 33-year-old has already set his sights on getting an extended deal after the season is over.

Hedman said: “It’s a fairytale from beginning to end. My first job is to regain fitness. After all, it’s 18 months since I last played.”