Michael Ballack will probably be voted German Player of the Year. He is really talented and has been a revelation to Leverkusen's title runs this season. But I am not sure that he will really fill Effenberg's role.
I have had a chance to see him play several times this year. He is no playmaking midfielder. In fact, what he reminds me more of is a defensive midfielder who scores many goals. The guy is just not a good passer. Basturk does most of the running while there is much passing support from the wings in Ze Roberto and Schneider, with Placente and Lucio coming up from the back a lot. Bayern will also afford him the same scenario next season as there will be plenty of help from Scholl, Brazzo, and Liza, etc.
But unfortunately, there will be no such luxury with the Mannschaft. With Scholl definitely out and Deisler a questionmark, there just are not enough creative players in support. Is this the guy that Germany is resting it's hopes on? I really hate to say it but it may be a disappointing time in Asia this summer.
I have had a chance to see him play several times this year. He is no playmaking midfielder. In fact, what he reminds me more of is a defensive midfielder who scores many goals. The guy is just not a good passer. Basturk does most of the running while there is much passing support from the wings in Ze Roberto and Schneider, with Placente and Lucio coming up from the back a lot. Bayern will also afford him the same scenario next season as there will be plenty of help from Scholl, Brazzo, and Liza, etc.
But unfortunately, there will be no such luxury with the Mannschaft. With Scholl definitely out and Deisler a questionmark, there just are not enough creative players in support. Is this the guy that Germany is resting it's hopes on? I really hate to say it but it may be a disappointing time in Asia this summer.