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Ballack Reluctant to Talk Future

Luxembourg - Michael Ballack refused to discuss future international career, although there are signs that he should rest, because of injuries he suffered so he could not perform at the World Cup.

Ballack was forced to miss the World Cup in South Africa, but his team performed brilliantly with a shot until the semifinal and will face Spain, on Wednesday.

Former German star Lothar Matthaeus has told Ballack (32 years) to quit international football, while captain Philipp Lahm said he wanted to keep the armband after the World Cup is complete. "I do not want to talk about this issue," said Ballack, Tuesday.

Ballack, who will play for Bayer Leverkusen next season after leaving Chelsea, said he believed the Germans had every opportunity to reach the finals on Sunday. "Everyone played well, they reached the semi-finals with a lot of confidence," he said.

"They have beaten two good teams (England 4-1 and Argentina 4-0) by playing exceptional football. We have a great chance against Spain and the team confident," he said. (AFP)