Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack revealed his joy at being back in the German national side after a frustrating spell on the sidelines.Ballack saw the majority of 2007 written off as he struggled to overcome a troublesome ankle injury - but now he is back to full fitness he is aiming to make up for lost time.

He has already grabbed two goals in seven Premier League games for his club side and was the driving force behind Germany's 3-0 win against Austria on Wednesday night.

"It was good to be back," Ballack told ARD after the game. "We made a few mistakes and there were a few things to work on, but it was good to come here and get the win."

With Euro 2008 fast approaching, German coach Joachim Low also admitted that Ballack's return had come as a timely boost.

"We are overjoyed to have Michael back to full health and returned to our team after a very long break," he said.

"He showed why he is an important part of our plans for Euro 2008."

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