Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo says he is nearing full fitness after accepting the European Golden Boot this week.

"I hope I'll be back to playing football soon," Ronaldo said. "I already count the days to my return and the recovery process is going perfectly.

"Right now my plan is playing, scoring lots of goals and helping Manchester United and Portugal win titles this year.

"My dream is being the best footballer in the world but I haven't made it yet. This is the first time I've been out for such a long time and it's a tough experience.

"Watching the games from the stands hurts me a lot without being able to do anything to help my team-mates."

The forward scored an incredible 42 goals last season and has now received the European Golden Boot in his homeland, and expressed his pride during the ceremony.

"I feel proud at being from Portugal and from Madeira, for that reason I wanted to receive it here," he added. "I won this trophy playing for an English club but it's very important for Portuguese football.

"Being part of the list of the best European goalscorers alongside with Eusebio and Fernando Gomes is an honour to me."