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Michael Ballack is backing Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger to fill his boots and lead Germany to World Cup glory.
Chelsea star Ballack was ruled out of playing in South Africa after suffering an ankle injury during the Blues’ FA Cup triumph over Portsmouth.However, the 33-year-old, who has flown to Germany’s training camp in Sicily “to be part of the family” and “to help me come to terms with this blow quicker”, had a few words of advice for coach Joachim Low.“Schweini has got to do it now and take on more responsibility,” he said. “He is self-confident and has the class. I don’t see anybody else who shows such a presence and sets the tone like him. “As for the captain, I don’t want to add to the speculation – it is hard enough for the coach. There are (Philipp) Lahm, Schweini and (Miroslav) Klose.“Miro has had an unfortunate season, but he has a high standing in the national team. His experience is important and being captain could give him a boost.”
Germany are 14/1 with Blue Square to win the World Cup, whilst Klose is 25/1 to bag the Golden Boot for the second successive time.