Ballack misses training

Michael Ballack sat out training this morning after picking up a minor foot injury in Germany’s 2-0 victory over Sweden.

No diagnosis has been made yet, but the 29-year-old is not expected to miss Friday’s quarter-final clash with Argentina in Berlin.

“Michael Ballack skipped today’s regeneration training due to a light foot problem,” team manager Oliver Bierhoff said. “He is currently receiving treatment.”

Ballack was impressive in Germany’s fourth straight victory in the tournament, forcing Sweden goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson into a host of superb saves.

The Germany skipper missed his side’s opening 4-2 victory over Costa Rica with a calf sprain.