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Ballack, Loew to meet in attempt to settle Frings spat

Germany captain Michael Ballack and coach Joachim Loew have agreed to meet in an attempt to settle the dispute stemming from Ballack’s criticism of the coach’s selection criteria.

Ballack used a newspaper interview earlier this week to strongly criticize Loew for barely playing veteran midfielder Torsten Frings in the last two World Cup qualifiers. Frings later backed Ballack and also criticized the coach.

Loew reacted angrily to Ballack’s statements, saying he was disappointed with his captain’s “unacceptable” comments and sought to arrange a private meeting between the two.

The two talked late on Thursday and agreed to meet, German football federation spokesman Harald Stenger said yesterday.

“The private meeting will take place as soon as possible,” Stenger said, without disclosing the time or the venue.

Frings has made 78 appearances for Germany but played only seven minutes in the 2-1 win over Russia on Oct. 11 and didn’t come off the bench in the 1-0 win over Wales four days later. Frings later said he was considering retirement.

Frings, who was one of the German stars in 2006 when they finished third at the World Cup, has said that he is not disappointed with having been dropped or not been given enough playing time.

“I am upset about the way in which this was handled, the way in which I was treated. That should not happen,” he said.

The 32-year-old Ballack and Frings used to play together in Germany’s under-19 team and are good friends. Frings has often acted as “bodyguard” for Ballack, covering up for the captain in defense when he goes forward.

Loew is looking at younger players ahead of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Frings will be 32 next month.
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