Chelsea: Ballack training again

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is back in training after his lengthy lay-off. Avram Grant will soon be able to call upon the Germany international whose future at the club was questionable whilst Chelsea were managed by Mourinho, however, Ballack is believed to be an important part of Avram Grant's first-team plans.

The 31-year-old Germany skipper, who underwent two ankle operations, is yet to feature this season.

"On Monday he did his first training on the pitch with the reserve team," said Blues boss Avram Grant.

"He did it very well and he has progressed very well in the last few weeks.

"We will see what happens in the next two or three weeks but he is going in the right way and of course I hope he will be available for us as soon as possible."