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Ronaldo set for Milan debut

Carlo Ancelotti has called Ronaldo for Sunday’s Livorno game and confirms he could make his Milan debut.

“He will start from the bench. If the opportunity arises, then he will play,” explained the Coach in his Press conference.

“Ronaldo has been doing well in training. He really wants to make the most of this opportunity to get back to the highest levels.”

When he first arrived from Real Madrid in January, club doctors warned that Il Fenomeno would require around a month of training before he was ready for Serie A football.

However, the Brazilian has impressed with his tenacity and the fitness levels mean he could make his bow against Livorno this weekend.

“He is very motivated, disciplined and eager to prove himself. Now above all he has to understand his teammates’ movements and gel with them, but with the qualities he possesses, I doubt that will be difficult.”

Milan are still awaiting the verdict from this morning’s inspection on the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, as the installation of 28 new turnstiles overnight could allow the presence of the season ticket holders on Sunday. If the new measures were rejected, then Ronaldo would be greeted by empty stands.

“I think some things weren’t dealt with competently after the Catania riots,” insisted Ancelotti. “It was right to clamp down on hooligans, but closing the stadiums completely puts the blame on an entire sport that is in reality the victim of these delinquents.

“It is true that we must all change our attitude and grow in terms of respect for our opponents, but without the crowd there, it’s just not football. It is a virtual game and in my view not really worth playing.”

With Marco Borriello suspended for failing a drugs test and Pippo Inzaghi injured, Ronaldo’s arrival is just in time to help the push for a Champions League place.

“Inzaghi has started running again and should be ready in the next few games. Serginho must not be rushed, but he is doing much better. Kakha Kaladze will be on the bench on Sunday and Alessandro Nesta is still in the States for specialist treatment, but should be completely healed by the time he returns.”

It was strongly rumoured that Real Madrid had requested Ricardo Oliveira as part of the Ronaldo move, but the Brazilian has stayed at San Siro.

“He is in good shape and I really hope with all my heart he can express that potential,” continued Ancelotti.

“So far his form in training hasn’t yet transferred to the match day. As Ronaldo is Cup-tied, Oliveira will be very important for us in the Champions League.”