Ballack fires his lawyer during speeding trial

Ex-Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has parted ways with his lawyer on the first day of his speeding trial.

The 36-year-old, who retired from football in October, had earlier been arrested for speeding near Trujilo, Spain, and had already requested a reduction of the 10,000 euros required to pay the fine.

His lawyer then argued on Thursday that his client currently does not have a regular wage at his disposal and he therefore pleaded for a reduction of the fine to 1,000 euros.

Ballack told reporters: "The Spanish lawyer, whom I only let attend because he was appointed to me before the first day of trial, did not have the assignment to argue in the nonsensical way like he apparently did.

"Because of that, I immediately released him from his duty. Of course I respect the Spanish law, the Spanish court and their judgement," he continued.

The final judgement in the case is expected to be announced next week.

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