I can't be shoring up the defence and scoring goals at the same time - Ballack - Sport

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The Chelsea star, now fully recovered from an ankle injury, enjoyed a storming second half of the season but believes public expectation may be too much as he prepares for their clash against Croatia tomorrow.

Man to watch: German assistant coach Hans-Dieter Flick (left) and coach Joachim Loew (centre) watch captain Michael Ballack during a training session

Germany play Ballack and Torsten Frings in a defensive midfield pairing and, unlike at Chelsea, there is no Claude Makelele behind him to give him freedom to attack.

He said: "I know people expect a lot from me. They want me to stop the opponent's moves but also to add a little bit of sparkle and flair in creative midfield as well.

"But with the system we play whenever there is a hole to fill then I'm asked to fill that gap."