The Chelsea midfielder is an injury doubt for the Group Four clash in Monchengladbach after picking up a knock to his calf in Saturday's win over Russia.

Ballack and team manager Bierhoff reportedly clashed at the end of the Euro 2008 final, which Germany lost 1-0 to Spain, but clear-the-air talks last month have brought an end to any dispute.

Bierhoff insists he has no problem with the former Bayern Munich man and is eager to see him play against the Welsh.

"It is not hard to be a fan of Ballack the footballer," he said.

"It has certainly helped that we have been able to see each other every day and talk and I am happy that this issue has been dealt with.

"This 'argument' never actually took place - it has been blown out of proportion by the media.

"We need a successful Ballack with his goals and no other issues."

Germany lie top of the group with seven points from their opening three matches, but Wales are just a point further back in second.

The Welsh also held Germany to a goalless draw away from home in qualifying for the European Championship.

Should Ballack fail to recover in time for the match in Monchengladbach, Werder Bremen's Torsten Frings would be likely to come in to the team.

But Bierhoff insisted the coaching staff would wait before making a final decision on the captain.

"We have just got to wait and see because a lot depends on Ballack," he said.

"He plays a central role in our team.

"But there is no other bad news from the medical department - everybody is fit and able to play."

Wednesday's other game in the group sees Russia try to bounce back from the defeat to Germany at home to Finland.

Russia lie fourth on three points, a point behind Finland with both sides having played two games, and will be looking for three points to help keep the pressure on Germany.

Finland winger Joonas Kolkka knows Russia boss Guus Hiddink's sides are always hard to play against.

He said: "He (Hiddink) has an incredible presence. It doesn't seem to matter which country he's working in. He always gets results.

"Guus has managed to bring the team on. Tactically, he's perhaps not a true genius but he has an aura surrounding him.

"Germany will certainly win the group, I've thought that all along. That leaves us fighting for second place with Russia and Wales. We have every chance of progressing."

Toni Kallio is suspended so Veli Lampi is set to take his place in defence for Finland.