Low disappointed by Ballack attack
Germany coach Joachim Low admits he was shocked by recent criticism from captain Michael Ballack.
In a newspaper interview, the Chelsea midfielder questioned Low’s decision to leave Torsten Frings out of the national team and bemoaned the fact he had not been contacted since undergoing foot surgery.
Low is now considering what action to take regarding Ballack’s comments.
“Basically it has surprised me that he has gone public like this,” Low told 'Bild' newspaper.
“I got the impression that all the decisions we made were fine by him after the wins over Russia and Wales, so his reaction has really shocked me.
“I will certainly speak with him and then we will have to see. I don’t yet know what action to take.”
The Germany coach refused to rule out the possibility of dropping Ballack for the upcoming friendly match with England in Berlin.
“I will think about it,” he said. “Every player knows the rules as regards public criticism and discussing individuals is the sole responsibility of the coach.”
Among other things, Ballack had said regarding Frings’ omission: “If you don’t want anybody any longer, then you should just say so honestly. Respect and loyalty is the least a worthy national player can expect.”
