Sneijder Ready For Return

The creative midfielder tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee less than two months ago after a clash with Arsenal’s Abou Diaby in a pre-season friendly.

The injury was expected to keep him sidelined until at least December, so for Bernt Schuster to see the diminutive Dutchman back in training will give his battle-scarred midfield a major boost.

It has been a miraculous comeback, and is testament to the determination of Sneijder to regain fitness and also the skill and care of the Real Madrid medical team who aided his recuperation.

He resumed light training just at the right time for Madrid, who saw Fernando Gago and then Guti pick up injuries that will rule them out of action for the next few weeks.

Although they will be reluctant to rush him back into the side, he may be required as soon as possible to cover for the loss of his teammates.

Real Madrid were in good spirits in training after their exhibition of skill outclassed Sporting Gijon 7-1 at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, and the Madrid faithful are desperate to see Sneijder re-united with his ex-Ajax compatriot Van Der Vaart in the centre of midfield.


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