Terry reveals Ballack tunnel row

Chelsea captain John Terry has revealed how he once had a tunnel bust-up with the club’s new signing Michael Ballack.

The England defender is looking forward to playing alongside the Germany captain next season as he believes Ballack can add even more firepower to their midfield.

Ballack, who agreed to join the Blues from Bayern Munich on a free transfer earlier this week, squared up to Terry in the tunnel during the quarter-finals of the Champions League last season.

Terry said: “Obviously he’s a great player and I’ve played against him a few times a couple of years ago.

“I’m looking forward to playing alongside him. He’s a massive player. You just have to look at his goal record for Germany and Bayern Munich.

“He scores great goals, similar to (Frank) Lampard. He’s looking forward to playing with him too.

“We did once have a little square-up in the tunnel, myself, him and Oliver Kahn.

“That’s what football is all about in the tunnel before a game and I’m excited about him coming to Chelsea and it’s looking good for us.”

Ballack is expected to be followed by Andriy Shevchenko as coach Jose Mourinho looks to strengthen his squad ahead of next season.

Meanwhile, left-back Asier del Horno has admitted his surprise at speculation linking him with Real Madrid as part of Mourinho’s bid to land Roberto Carlos.

The Blues are understood to have held talks with Carlos and it is being suggested that Madrid would take Athletic Bilbao player in a possible exchange deal.

Del Horno admitted: “It has left me surprised. I don’t know if I will leave. That’s for the people at Chelsea.”

“What I can say is it’s an honour that Madrid could be interested in me. They’re a great team and everyone would like to play for them.

“They’re a giant and just the thought of playing there makes me happy.”