Ronaldo declares himself fit Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Cristiano Ronaldo seems set to defy Sir Alex Ferguson by playing in Portugal's Euro 2008 qualifier with Kazhakstan on Wednesday.
The Manchester United winger suffered an ankle injury in his side's Premiership win at Blackburn on Saturday.
Although Ferguson released Ronaldo for international duty, he also stated his wish for the 21-year-old to be excused the game in Coimbra, which Portugal need to win after making a poor start to their qualifying campaign.
However, the former Sporting Lisbon star is keen to be involved and has reassured his country of his determination to face the Eastern Europeans.
"I am fine," said Ronaldo.
"It was just a small knock. I think one day or two will be enough to be back to 100%.
"The only thing I can say is that, on Wednesday, I will be fine for playing."
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has tipped Ronaldo to become a future captain of the national side.
"We are currently working on a leadership that will be important for the future of the national team with Ronaldo," said Scolari.
"I would like him to become one of the captains of the national team. He has charisma, he is young but he is learning very fast how to overcome some problems within a team."
