Ballack: Premier League Race Is Between Chelsea & Manchester United

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack feels that this season's battle for the Premier League title is looking like a two-team tussle between the Blues and Manchester United, despite the presence of a bigger chasing pack of challengers this year.

"It looks a little bit like a two-horse race but we don't underestimate anybody. Manchester City did well until now. Tottenham [Hotspur], Arsenal and Liverpool are all teams that can have a run any time of the season," he told The Daily Telegraph.

"But United have a lot of good years behind them with the Champions League win and three title wins in the Premier League, which will give them a lot of confidence."

Ballack also credits new manager Carlo Ancelotti with imbuing a new ruthlessness into the Chelsea squad, something which has led to a boost in confidence amongst the players.

He added: "That’s what he always tells us – you have to wait for your chance and you can see it now when they come, we are deadly. He gives the team a lot of confidence."