Michael Ballack: Chelsea Are My 'First Option'

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has insisted that staying with the Blues is his preference as he looks to secure a new contract.

The German international's current deal expires in the next few weeks and he is keen to negotiate a longer stay at the club despite reported interest in securing his services from Schalke 04.

"Chelsea are absolutely my first option," the 33-year-old told Germany's Bild newspaper.

"We are in contact with the club. The coach first of all wants to discuss things internally and then he will approach the players in a week."

Ballack, meanwhile, is set to miss the World Cup after sustaining an ankle injury in the FA Cup final against Portsmouth.

Despite that set-back, he does not believe that his international career is over yet.

"I won't let my international career come to an end because of a foul like this," he added.

"I never said that I would retire after the World Cup. I want to continue playing at the highest level and I will consider things in calm over the next few weeks.

"I gave everything for the goal of South Africa and now the World Cup has been taken away from me in a brutal way.

"It is bitter to be hacked down in such a way in the last game of the season. It hurts."

Ballack now feels it is time for other players to step up at this summer's tourment and help coach Joachim Loew lead the team to victory in South Africa.

"Schweini [Bastian Schweinsteiger] has got to do it now and take on more responsibility," he said.

"He is self-confident and has the class. I don't see anybody else who shows such a presence and sets the tone like him.

"As for the captain, I don't want to add to the speculation - it is hard enough for the coach.

"There are [Philipp] Lahm, Schweini and [Miroslav] Klose.

"Miro has had an unfortunate season, but he has a high standing in the national team. His experience is important.

"And, being captain could give him a boost."