Bayern back Ballack

The Germany captain has come in for criticism in the press for a series of low-profile performances in recent weeks, though has consistently received the backing of manager Jose Mourinho, and now Beckenbauer has weighed in with his support.

Speaking at the World Football Gala in Salzburg on Monday, Beckenbauer commented: "At Chelsea there is huge competition for places. There's hardly another team in the world that is so filled with world class players.

"He has to prove his ability every day. But Michael knew that beforehand. And in any case, you should ask Jose Mourinho."

The Chelsea manager himself supported his player yet again while speaking on German broadcaster ARD, insisting:

"He is in the team not because the fans, the president or journalists pick it, but because I do.

"Michael has not done anything amazing yet, but he is a team player and sacrifices himself for the team. That is another reason why he plays."

Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness suggested the reason for Ballack's rather underwhelming first six months in English football was the tactics of Mourinho.

"I think Chelsea have bought these star players without working out where and how they will fit into the side," he reasoned.

"They need to decide where his best position is. It's difficult for Michael to be seen at his best, because he is such a similar player to Frank Lampard.

"Both like to attack and get forward, but one of them also has to get back and defend.

"I think there's a lot of confusion as to what people's roles are. Look at [Andriy] Shevchenko, Chelsea thought he would be their main striker, but [Didier] Drogba has done far better, and now they are trying to play both. They need to work out a system and settle on it."