Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo could be out of action for three months following his minor ankle surgery.

It is a devastating blow for Manchester United, who thought their Portuguese wing wizard was facing only a six-week lay-off.

Ronaldo revealed his KO shock yesterday, having had right ankle surgery on Monday.

He said: "It's confirmed I will be out of action for up to 12 weeks.

"But recovery is going well. I'm very optimistic and have been working with the Portugal team physio.

"I'm not in any pain. Things have been evolving quite well. I have to concentrate on my recovery. That is the most important thing. I'll be training with a ball in only two months."