( AFP )- Three-time former world footballer of the year Ronaldo has shelved thoughts about playing again and is focused on the lengthy and testing physiotherapy sessions needed to recuperate his injured left knee.
The 31-year-old AC Milan striker underwent surgery at the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital in Paris last week on the tendon ruptured while playing for his club against Livorno in Serie A action.
It was the latest in a series of knee injuries that have affected his glittering career, which has seen him established as top World Cup goal scorer.
"My heart tells me to play again but my body is sending me signs of fatigue and suffering," said Ronaldo, who was due to be released from hospital on Friday but will remain in Paris for two further weeks before returning to Milan.
"It has been a real knock-out blow, both physically and mentally," he admitted.
"I still don't know how it happened. I still mustn't think about playing again. I must focus for the moment on undergoing the best physio possible. This will be very tough.
"If I'm okay at the end of that, then of course I'll play again. If there's another ending, it will be a difficult and sad decision. I know exactly the bridges I have to cross. I have experience of recuperating from injury."
According to Professor Yves Catonne, head of orthopedic and sports surgery at the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital, Ronaldo will likely have to wait five to six months before jogging and eight months before touching a ball again.
The surgeon who carried out the operation, Professor Eric Rolland, spelt out in detail what lies ahead for Ronaldo on the long road to full fitness.
"He's going to have to keep the protection on his right leg in place and walk with crutches for at least a month and a half to ensure the scar tissue is solid.
"He'll be able to put his foot on the ground but he'll have to be careful not to make a sudden movement.
"After that we can look at fitting something more flexible if his knee allows it. In terms of being able to run he won't be able to do that for four and a half to five months.
"And he'll have to wait six months before working on building up his muscular strength. Full training is nine months away."
