Injured Germany captain Ballack may miss Euro showdown

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Ballack, who missed the 2002 World Cup final through suspension weeks after losing the Champions League final with Bayer Leverkusen, has been a major influence in the championship so far as he tries to make amends for losing the Champions League final on penalties for Chelsea.

Unlucky 13: Michael Ballack could miss the final

But his dream of leading Germany to their first trophy since Euro 96 may have been hit by a calf injury in the build up to the Spain game, although Loew admitted that it was not known when Ballack had suffered the injury Loew said last night: 'Michael has not been able to train for the last two days.

The problem began on Friday when the muscle in his right calf stiffened up. He was not able to train on Saturday either, but we will see what happens overnight. The medical staff are working around the clock but we have to think seriously now about the possibility that he won't play.'

Tim Borowski, of Bayern Munich, is the likely replacement, although Spain suspect Ballack's injury has been overstated and he will play against them.