German legend Franz Beckenbauer is disappointed by Chelsea's decision to release Michael Ballack. Beckenbauer feels he fell victim to the fact Chelsea failed to win the Champions League for a seventh season since Roman Abramovich's takeover.

"It's a shame for him because he's not the youngest any more," said Beckenbauer.

"Maybe another year or two would have done him good at Chelsea, but I can understand their disappointment.

"Abramovich has invested millions over the years and, while of course winning the league and the cup is a success, he has the aim of winning the Champions League and he has not done that so he is revolutionising his team.

"They have aged a bit and I can understand that they want a younger team. It's just a shame that that affects Ballack."