Ronaldo was pictured jogging round United's Carrington training base last week after being given the green light to step up his rehabilitation.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested the Portugal star will be out of action until the beginning of October although Ronaldo is targeting a return before then.

"I have never experienced a situation like this, being two months without kicking a ball. I just want to be fully recovered," he told Portuguese broadcaster SIC.

"I am not used to being sidelined. I feel sad, but the worst moment has already gone and I recognise that I must patient.

"I feel well, and the time of kicking a ball is coming. Playing football - this is what makes me happy."

Ronaldo has also been widely touted as a strong candidate for the FIFA world player of the year award and the 23-year-old believes he has a good chance.

He added: "I think that I had very positive campaign last season. It would be a dream that becomes reality to win it. Not any player has done what I did last season.

"I believe I can win it this year."