Rejuvenated Ballack times his run to perfection again

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Ballack struggled in the first half of the campaign with injury, but after scoring his first goal of the season in the FA Cup third-round replay against Southend, he netted two more in the 3-1 win over Ipswich on Saturday.

The Germany captain came back from injury last season to be one of Chelsea's most influential players and is convinced he will do it again.

He said: "I am feeling better now after my injuries to both feet. It's always a little bit hard to come back to fitness.

"I know from my experience as a player that I need games, games, games and a period to play to get my best fitness level." Ballack's contract runs out in the summer, although there is an option to extend it by another 12 months.

However, the 32-year-old is looking to sign on until 2011, but the club would like to reduce his £121,000-a-week wages.

He added: "We have spoken and there is no pressure from me or the club."

Chelsea face Middlesbrough at home in the Premier League on Wednesday before playing Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Ballack added: "We have dropped too many points at home and we have to be careful."