Ballack dismisses Reds’ title hopes

MICHAEL BALLACK has poured scorn on Liverpool’s hopes of winning their first championship since 1990.

Instead, the Chelsea midfielder insists the title race will once again become a straight shoot-out between his club and Manchester United, suggesting that only they have the strength in depth to last the pace.

“It’s always the big four that everyone speaks about, but I think it’s still about Chelsea and Manchester United,” he said. “Arsenal are already behind which makes it very difficult for them.