MICHAEL BALLACK has delivered a withering assessment of Germany's chances against England – insisting too many of their players lack the heart for a battle.
And the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich great claimed Joachim Low's side struggle to find a Plan B when the going gets tough.
Germany only landed their last-16 clash with the Three Lions by the skin of their teeth, with Leon Goretzka's late equaliser against Hungary sending them through.
National legend Ballack now fears a wurst case scenario at Wembley on Tuesday.
He said: "We always find it difficult when we play against countries who are mentally strong and good in one-on-one duels.
"We have some lads who possess these characteristics – but not enough of them.
"Unfortunately we have too many players who have not learned how to be flexible during matches.
"They are pushed to their limits in difficult situations, when they need to win using other means than those originally planned."
Ballack, 44, also aimed a swipe at coach Low, who will step down after the Euros.
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He added: "I generally think it a good thing if someone pushes through with their ideas if they are convinced with them.
"But I have the impression with Jogi Low that he only makes things right if people outside the national team talk about making changes.
"He shouldn't take offence or see it as a setback if he sometimes has to alter things."
Ballack helped Chelsea win a Premier League title, two FA Cups and a League Cup before leaving in 2010 to rejoin former club Bayer Leverkusen.
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