体坛英语新闻：Bayer Leverkusen signs Michael Ballack

BERLIN, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Thirty three-year-old Michael Ballack signed a two-year contract with his former club Bayer Leverkusen, confirmed by Bayer Leverkusen and Ballack himself on Friday.

Ballack has once played for Leverkusen from 1999 to 2002. He played 79 matches and scored 27 goals for the team, but lost the Champions League final in 2002.

"We will have a quality boost in our squad with Michael Ballack as a new player of the club. The youngster will benefit from Michaels experience and skills, " said Sports director Rudi Voeller.

After four years in London, FC Chelsea had no interest to extend its contract with Ballack, who has played 105 official matches and netted 17 goals.

"I had a successful and nice time in Leverkusen. We have a young squad that offers a visions, that why I made my decision for Leverkusen" , said Ballack after the signing.

Ballack missed the World Cup in South Africa due to an injury. Since 1999 Ballack played 98 matches for the national team and scored 42 goals.