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.

“Liverpool are very good at this moment, but for me they are always a club for the Champions League, partly because they can put all their focus on one or two matches. But when you look at results and squads, I think us and United are just a little bit stronger.”