Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo aiming for early return

The Portugal international underwent ankle surgery in July and initial forecasts sugested that he would be out of action until late October and possibly November.

But Ronaldo, who scored 42 goals last season to fire United to the Premier League title and European Cup triumph, has been told to step up his rehabilitation after making better-than-expected progress.

"I am feeling fine. I am feeling really good and my recovery is going well," the 23-year-old said. "I am more than happy with my progress and I hope to be back playing for United by the end of September - that is my target and it is a realistic one.

"It has been frustrating to miss the start of the Premier League season but I am pleased with my rehabilitation and, hopefully, I'll be ready soon."

Should his prediction come true, Ronaldo could turn out for United against Bolton on Sept 27.

Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson hopes to have Michael Carrick fit and available for United's Champions League group stage opener against Villareal.

Paul Scholes will sit out the Sept 17 match at Old Trafford after being sent off in the 2-1 Super Cup defeat to Zenit St Petersburg.

The former England midfielder will serve a one-match ban after receiving a second yellow card for deliberate handball.

However, Carrick is expected to continue his progress from an ankle injury over the international break and put himself in line for a date with the Spanish side