体坛英语新闻：Ronaldo admits not ready to play

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 18 (Xinhua) -- Corinthians' star striker Ronaldo confessed on Sunday that his calf injury still bothers him and that he is not ready to return to play.

The athlete previously stated on July 13 that he was ready for action. Ronaldo made an appearance at the charity game called up by Deco in the city of Indaiatuba, Sao Paulo.

Along with his son, Ronaldo watched the match that starred Argentina's Lionel Messi. The game ended 3-3.

Deco was able to score, but Messi did not. Upon his arrival into the stadium, Ronaldo received a standing ovation from the fans.

Brazilian soccer player Ronaldo parades for Gavioes da Fiel Alegre samba school during carnival in Sao Paulo February 14, 2010.

The three-time most valuable player took pictures alongside the current MVP. Ronaldo's son, Ronald, is a huge fan of Messi, but Ronaldo was quick to remind the media that he won the title three times, in 1996, 1997 and 2002.

The 33-year-old striker injured his right calf muscle more than two months ago. He only played in his team's first match of the 2010 Brazilian Championship against Atletico-PR on May 8.

Ronaldo is eager to return to the field, but head coach Mano Menezes wants to be sure that he is ready. The last thing Menezes wants is Ronaldo to return prematurely and re-injury himself.

He placed team doctor Joaquim Grava in complete control of the athlete, giving the doctor the final say as to when Ronaldo can return to action.