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Showing posts from March 27, 2009

Captain Ballack urges Germany to raise their game

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AFP - Germany captain Michael Ballack on Thursday urged the Euro 2008 finalists to raise their game for Saturday''s World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein to banish the memories of their recent defeats. The 32-year-old Chelsea star is demanding a raised effort in Leipzig from his side who have lost their last two home games: a 2-1 defeat to England last November and a 1-0 defeat to Norway in February. Germany have not suffered back-to-back home defeats since 1956 and Ballack says only a convincing win over Liechenstein, ranked 151st in the world, will suffice. "We simply have to play better and put in a better performance," Ballack told sports magazine Kicker. "And it will happen." Germany are top of their qualifying group and are unbeaten with three wins and a draw to give them a four-point lead over their main group rivals Russia. But the Germans travel to Moscow in October for the tie which could decide the group and Ballack says it is crucial Germany

Ramos denies Guti has been frozen out

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The Real Madrid boss is adamant that he does not have a problem with the experienced midfielder after reports suggested the pair had a bust-up in training last week. Despite leaving Guti out on several occasions and using him as a substitute on many others, Ramos stated that he would happily choose him when the occasion was right. "Guti was not called up because I decided not to do that. For that game, I felt other players would be better. My job is to choose the best team," he told Onda Madrid. "Each player has a different character, but they must all be treated equally. Players are left out and they are included. "I have not finished with anyone." Reflecting on the race for the title, Ramos refuted allegations that Madrid are too defensively-minded. "Barca are recording some results that are difficult to match. We have to raise our game because there is a team above us and all we can do is keep playing the way we have been," he continued. "If w