Bayer Leverkusen's Ballack ruled out of Barcelona clash

The experienced midfielder has picked up a muscular problem, and won't be match fit in time for Tuesday's game.

Feb 12, 2012 12:04:00 PM

By Stefan Coerts

More On :  Barcelona, Leverkusen, Michael Ballack
Michael Ballack, Bayer Leverkusen
Getty Images
Bayer Leverkusen coach Robin Dutt will have to make do without the services of Michael Ballack in Tuesday's Champions League round of 16 first leg against Barcelona at the BayArena, after the former Germany international sustained a calf injury.
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Leverkusen has announced on its official website that Ballack picked up the knock in Sunday morning's squad training, and consequently limped off the pitch to undergo treatment.

It's not yet known exactly how long the influential midfielder will be unavailable due to the calf problem, but he has been ruled out of the first leg against Barcelona.

The Werkself are plagued by injuries as they prepare for the European clash. Sidney Sam and Eren Derdiyok both picked up knocks in recent weeks, and will also miss Tuesday's encounter.

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