Michael Ballack’s damning verdict of ‘nice guy’ Timo Werner as he warns Chelsea flop he is fighting for his future

TIMO WERNER has come under fire from Chelsea great Michael Ballack - with the German legend accusing his countryman of being too nice to succeed.

Striker Werner has failed to live up to expectations since his £47million move from RB Leipzig two years ago.

Under contract until 2025, the 26-year-old has been tipped to leave Stamford Bridge after just 23 goals in 89 games.

Midfielder Ballack spent four seasons with Chelsea, winning the Premier League, three FA Cups and a League Cup.

He also won 98 Germany caps and a host of trophies with Bayern Munich.

The 45-year-old declared: "Timo has been a lot better than what he is at the moment in terms of personality and character.

"It was a brave step on his part to go to Chelsea, knowing what their setting is like - but he hasn't managed to establish himself.

"It is important for him to take on board what is expected of him.

"He was close to becoming their undisputed first-choice striker, and with the German national team as well.

"But that is a position he has lost. He now needs to build up his mental strength once again.

"He strikes me as a nice guy, but he has to try to flip the switch so he can believe in himself once more.

"He has what it takes, but to my mind he lacks that 'elbow mindset' [where he makes his presence felt].

"To my mind he is too well-behaved, and he resigns himself to his fate.

"If that does not change, he will continue to have a difficult time."

The main interest in Werner's services is reportedly coming from Newcastle and a host of clubs in Europe which include Juventus and Bundesliga trio Bayern, Borussia Dortmund and Leipzig.