Ballack in Chelsea pledge as he rules out Real - Sport - Evening Standard
       

Ballack in Chelsea pledge as he rules out Real

Michael Ballack has told Real Madrid to forget about signing him.

The Germany midfielder has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu, along with winger Arjen Robben but, unlike the Dutchman, Ballack is happy with his contract at Chelsea and wants to prove himself after a disappointing first season.

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Man in the middle: Ballack has been linked with a move away from Chelsea

He said: "I am totally committed to Chelsea. I came here to win trophies and be successful in English football, I want to assure the fans of that.

"I am happy in London professionally and for my family. The speculation about me leaving is not true. I have no interest in leaving Chelsea and I have had no contact with Real Madrid whatsoever. I am frustrated by my injury but I am working hard to be fit and hope to be back very soon."

Real may have thought they could prise Ballack from Chelsea because he ended last season on a sour note with Jose Mourinho.

Confusion over an ankle injury saw them at odds and the midfielder is no longer considered one of the head coach's untouchables.

Ballack's agent, Michael Becker, reportedly admitted to a German magazine that Real made contact with him indirectly, but he referred them to Chelsea and they are not ready to sell.

The former Bayern Munich player is recovering after two ankle operations and is expected back by the end of the month.

Whether Robben plays for Chelsea again remains to be seen. He is keen on a move to Madrid after being disappointed by his new contract offer. He has two years left and is refusing to sign a new deal unless the terms are improved.

Mourinho would like to keep him but Chelsea are thought ready to sell if the Spanish champions offer £25million.

Robben has a knee problem and it was decided not to risk him against Manchester United. He will return to training tomorrow.

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