Brazilian Ronaldo has been included in the AC Milan squad for the first time this season for Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Shakhtar Donetsk.
The former Real Madrid striker missed the start of the season because of a niggling leg problem.
The 31-year-old, cup-tied when Milan claimed the Champions League last term, is finally fit for a place in the squad but his chances of starting look remote after his lengthy layoff.
However, his return to fitness is still a much-needed boost for Milan, who have endured a woeful start to the campaign.
One of their main problems has been the main striker, Alberto Gilardino or Filippo Inzaghi, becoming isolated from a deep midfield with only Kaka offering a bridge.
The option of playing Ronaldo up front alongside the in-form Gilardino could tempt Carlo Ancelotti if Milan need a goal in the second half in Ukraine.
The European champions drew 0-0 with Torino on Saturday. They have not won at home in the league this season with their 2-1 win over Benfica in their opening Group D game and a 4-1 victory over Shakhtar two weeks ago their only successes at San Siro.