England v Germany: Michael Ballack claims England are not at the 'same level' as Germany

Former Chelsea midfielder says Hodgson's team are 'a bit behind'

Michael Ballack does not see England as rivals for Germany (AFP/Getty)

Michael Ballack insists England are not on the “same level” as Germany ahead of Tuesday's friendly at Wembley.

Germany are second in the world rankings and their former midfielder Ballack, who won 98 caps between 1999 and 2010, believes their superiority is evident.

"I don't see England as being the same level as teams like Germany or Spain. They're a bit behind," Ballack told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek.

"They have a lot of talented players, but are still a big name. We always had great respect when we played England.

"This is not a real friendly game. England are playing Germany and it's always a big rivalry.

"At the next World Cup England must use their name, use their quality and have confidence. Then everything is possible.

"When Germany goes to a big tournament we know we have to deliver because teams before us have done it.

"We don't want to be the team that goes out of the tournament early, so that creates a certain type of pressure."