World Cup 2010: Bernd Schuster: Ballack’s Injury Was A Stroke Of Luck For Germany

We are watches this World Cup 2010: Bernd Schuster: Ballack’s Injury Was A Stroke Of Luck For Germany

Former Real Madrid coach and ex-German national team player Bernd Schuster analysed the Mannschaft side that will face Spain in the World Cup semi-finals on Wednesday, declaring that Michael Ballack's injury that forced him to miss the World Cup actually turned out to be a stroke of luck for the Germans.

"Germany have reached a spectacular run of form, he said according to AS. "The loss of Michael Ballack was a stroke of luck. If he had not gotten injured, [Bastian] Schweinsteiger would not be as great and would have to be one of the many behind Ballack. But now he does not have to be and is able to play to his full potential. For me, he has been the best player of the World Cup."

Schuster qualified Ballack as a great player but in his absence declared that other players have made the most of the opportunity to shine.

"Other players who were in his shadow have now been given the chance to grow. If Ballack returns, he will have to fight for his place. That is absolutely normal and I don't think it will be a problem. The pairing of Ballack and Schweinsteiger could also make the team even more formidable."

Schuster also praised the new sensation of Bavarian football Mesut Oezil who he thinks has incredible potential.

"He has everything to have a great career. Technically, he is perfect, he is fast, and he has an eye for goal. He is the type of player every coach would want."

Finally, the Besiktas coach gave his take on Germany's clash with Spain in Wednesday's World Cup semi-final, believing that the Mannschaft could progress.

Coppied by Peace FM Online 2009