Michael Ballack: 'England are a bit behind Spain, Germany'

Former Germany international Michael Ballack has claimed that England are "a bit behind" the likes of Germany and Spain.

Speaking ahead of England's friendly with Germany at Wembley on Tuesday, Ballack said that he does not believe Roy Hodgson's side are on the same level as the top international sides.

"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 5Live. "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."

Ballack won 98 caps for Germany between 1999 and 2010.