Beckenbauer critical of Ballack

Franz Beckenbauer has slated Bayern Munich and singled out playmaker Michael Ballack for particular criticism.

Bayern, who have already been eliminated from the Champions League and theÊGerman Cup, look certain to end the season without silverware forÊthe second time since 2002 after falling 9 points behind Bundesliga leaders Werder Bremen.

However, Beckenbauer reserved his harshest critcism for Ballack

“He (Ballack) plays without enthusiasm and does not change his rhythm at all, it’s always the same tempo,” complained Beckenbauer.

“The domestic title is out of our reach for some time, all that matters now is to come second and gain automatic access to the UEFA Champions League.

“I think we have to analyse our current problems: Where’s Ballack’s problem? Do the other players accept him? Is he physically not fit? And how can coach Ottmar Hitzfeld motivate his squad the way it should be?”