http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/arti...779&ito=newsnow

When Lampard tore a muscle on Boxing Day there were fears that he could be out for five or six weeks after complications on a similar injury had led to a lengthy lay-off.

But he is already back running and looking to step up his rehabilitation. His father, Frank Lampard senior, thinks he may have been ready to play in the next game against Tottenham if it had not been brought forward two days to Saturday. When Ballack and Lampard are both fit they will be under pressure to develop a better partnership than they managed last season. There are doubts they can fulfil their potential together in the same side but the former West Ham player rejected them.

He said: "I don't agree with it, but once it gets inside people's heads they make that the issue. I watched Ballack closely in the World Cup after we had just signed him and he played deep for them [Germany]. His instinct is to play deep and arrive late on crosses. When I come back we can play together."

First news that Cech is back in full training and now this. Great news indeed.

Now I'll just wait to hear that JT has somehow magically healed and will play within a week

of course they can play together- to be honest I would suggest that essien should be the player under pressure for his place when all are available.

Maybe but to be fair Frank hasnt been up to much either (for a long time too now ) neither of them this season has shown the form Ballack has in the last few games. Out of everyone i think Joses departure has affected Essien most. Maybe some time away will do him good. If i had to pick a central midfield pairing right now it would be Ballack and Mikel (when not suspended )

Still it cant hurt to have Frank back, you always feel there is a goal in him.

Cant say that about Sidwell!

I think that the best midfield we could play would be

.....................ballack

...........Essien..............Lampard

....................Mikel

That is the midfield we used most of last season under Mourinho and it was pants........

so what would you play?

I think that the best midfield we could play would be

.....................ballack

...........Essien..............Lampard

....................Mikel

agreed.

This is the sort of mf formation to play in CL or against big clubs.

so what would you play?

I'd stick with the 4-3-3 but bring in some top class wingers and a Drogba replacement.

------Essien---------Ballack-----------lampard

SWP/Joey--------Sheva/Drogba-------------Malouada

Mikel for the bench!