Michael Ballack's Chelsea future is in serious doubt after the Germany captain was left out of the squad for the Champions League group stage.
Mourinho expects more upsets
The Stamford Bridge club blamed a persistent ankle injury for the decision, but Ballack is expected to return to action next month - time enough to play in at least three group games, with Chelsea's final game against Valencia on 11th December.
The 30-year-old will be particularly dismayed that he was left out despite Chelsea's decision to only register 23 players when they are entitled to name 25.
Ballack has not played since April and underwent surgery at the end of last season, reportedly angering Jose Mourinho by doing so without the club's consent.
His omission means he would be eligible to play in the Champions League for his new side if he were to leave the club in January.
Ballack has not played since April and underwent surgery at the end of last season, reportedly angering Jose Mourinho by doing so without the club's consent.
His omission means he would be eligible to play in the Champions League for his new side if he were to leave the club in January.
"We can confirm Michael Ballack has not been included on the list for the group phase," the club said.
"Unfortunately Michael's current injury meant, at the time of the squad submission deadline, we could not guarantee his availability for the majority of the group phase games.
"Unfortunately Michael's current injury meant, at the time of the squad submission deadline, we could not guarantee his availability for the majority of the group phase games.
"Naturally we hope Michael's recovery is as quick as possible."
Six players capable of playing in central midfield were named by Mourinho: Claude Makelele, Michael Essien, Frank Lampard, Steve Sidwell, Jospeh Cole and John Obi Mikel.
There is better news for Andriy Shevchenko, Ballack's fellow big-name Chelsea signing in summer 2006, who features in the list despite not having played for the club this season.
Chelsea have been drawn with Spain's Valencia, Schalke of Germany and Norwegians Rosenborg in Group B.Alex Chick / Eurosport
Six players capable of playing in central midfield were named by Mourinho: Claude Makelele, Michael Essien, Frank Lampard, Steve Sidwell, Jospeh Cole and John Obi Mikel.
There is better news for Andriy Shevchenko, Ballack's fellow big-name Chelsea signing in summer 2006, who features in the list despite not having played for the club this season.
Chelsea have been drawn with Spain's Valencia, Schalke of Germany and Norwegians Rosenborg in Group B.Alex Chick / Eurosport
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