Michael Ballack believes Chelsea teammate John Terry will be key to any England success at the World Cup.

Germany midfielder Ballack is out of the competition due to injury suffered in Chelsea's FA Cup final triumph.

He told the News of the World: "John Terry had some difficult times but anyone who knows him, knows he is a fighter.

"He is a big character - a big fighter. And he came out of this situation fighting. I know him and he will give everything for the national team.

"I know how much it means to him to be captain but even without it, he will be the same player.

"Actually, he might be even more because he knows everyone will be looking at him. It will inspire him.

"He could have hidden but he came out strong. But even without the armband, he is a leader and he will be a leader in the World Cup. And Ashley Cole is for sure the best left-back in the world.

"He has now added goals to his game. He is a fantastic player and, hopefully for England, he can take it to the World Cup."