Chelsea’s German midfield maestro Michael Ballack was unhappy at being put on the bench for Chelsea’s Carling Cup Final Game.

Avram Grant made some unusual decisions in his team selection in Chelsea’s defeat to Tottenham in the Carling Cup Final, least of all leaving Michael Ballack and Joe Cole on the bench.

Ballack did come on with 2 minutes of regular time to play, but he was unable to make a lasting impression as Chelsea were defeated in extra time.

“I am not happy that I did not play but I have to accept it like everybody else who did not start. The decision was not explained, it was on the teamsheet shortly before the game and that was it.”

Ballack agreed with the result and commended Tottenham “We didn’t start very well yesterday and couldn’t control the game. Tottenham looked sharper. We did too little to win a final. Now we have to think about why we didn’t win and do better in the future.”