Chelsea insist there's nothing sinister in Michael Ballack's omission from their Champions League squad list.

The decision came to light on Monday, with Chelsea insisting the 31-year-old midfielder out because the club doctors could not guarantee he would be available for the majority of their group games.

They reiterated that position in a statement on Thursday, which read: "Chelsea Football Club would like to reiterate that Michael Ballack's omission from the UEFA Champions League group phase squad list was taken only because of injury.

"There is no other reason for the decision and suggestions to the contrary are unfair on both Michael, who is attempting to get fit as soon as possible, and our medical team in whom we have every confidence."