AC Milan defender Kakha Kaladze hopes to be back in action by November.

"I am much better now, especially compared to my recent shape," the Georgian international told the official Milan website.

"In a few days I'll start running again and I think that by the end of October or the very start of November, I will be back in the squad."

Kaladze pulled up with a knee injury during the UEFA Cup win in Zurich and there were fears he had damaged the ligament, but those proved to be unfounded.

"I underwent physiotherapy and don't want to leave anything to chance over possible relapses. I have been feeling better for at least three days and I no longer sense pain when walking. This leaves me very optimistic."