Ballack’s return to boost Blues

MICHAEL BALLACK is set to return to action for Chelsea against old rivals Manchester United in the English season’s curtain-raiser in the Community Shield on Sunday.

The Germany captain has given Chelsea a major boost after returning to training and was due to test his fitness further in a closed-door friendly with Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday afternoon.

Ballack had to return to London a few days into the club’s pre-season tour to America last month because of a fractured toe. He missed Chelsea’s last four friendly games but has made a swift recovery.