Cristiano Ronaldo hoping to be fit by the end of September

1 September 08 by Bill

Cristiano Ronaldo is hoping he will be able to report for first team action before the end of September ahead of initial forecasts which had the winger ruled out until late October or even possibly November.

Ronaldo underwent ankle surgery in July and he has been told he can step up his rehabilitation after progressing better than expected.

“I am feeling fine – I am feeling really good and my recovery is going well,” Ronaldo said. “I am more than happy with my progress and I hope to be back playing for United by the end of September – that is my target and it is a realistic one. It has been frustrating to miss the start of the Premier League season but I am pleased with my rehabilitation and, hopefully, I’ll be ready soon.”

Alex Ferguson will be delighted with the progress Ronaldo is making and will be desperate to be able to call upon the Portuguesa again; who netted 42 times last season. United’s start to the season has been slow to say the least and they are clearly missing the speed and penetration Ronaldo brings to the team. It is still possible Berbatov will be joining United yet but having Ronaldo back in the team will be better than any signing Ferguson can make.