Luiz Felipe Scolari is hoping Michael Ballack can be persuaded to extend his Chelsea contract.

Ballack, 32, has overcome a difficult start to life in the Premier League to become a key member of the Blues squad during the past 18 months.

The Germany captain and former Bayern Munich star is out of contract at Stamford Bridge in the summer, but Scolari is hoping he pens an extension to remain in England.

Talks over a two-year extension with the attacking midfielder have already taken place and the Blues boss is hopeful that an agreement can be reached.

"He is a player who is very professional and who I like to work with," said Scolari.

"He has a German style - direct. I like that. In the future we will see what will happen with Chelsea but his age is no problem because he is young and plays very well.

"If Chelsea can agree a deal it is fantastic for me but we have not had a conversation about this yet."

Ballack himself recently suggested that he was willing to extend his two-year stay in west London.

"I feel I have a lot to give for years to come," he said

"I think I have a lot of experience and am still in good shape.

"I feel strong, I can imagine finishing my career at Chelsea and we want to win something big."

Meanwhile, Scolari has revealed that Joe Cole, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole will all return from injury in time to face Newcastle United on Saturday despite missing England's friendly win over Germany in midweek.