Ronaldo called up to Real squad for first time

Ronaldo could finally make his debut for Real Madrid in their league game at home to Alaves after being named in the squad for the first time.

"The medical staff have given their blessing," coach Vicente del Bosque told reporters at Real's training ground on Saturday.

"Ronaldo feels a lot better and that's why he's been included in the squad."

Ronaldo, who joined Real in a 45 million euro deal from Inter Milan just before the start of the season, has not played a competitive match since scoring both Brazil's goals in their World Cup final victory over Germany.

The 26-year-old striker has now recovered from a series of minor injures suffered since his arrival at Real and he was called up to a 21-strong squad for the first time on Saturday.

Del Bosque still has to decide whether to include Ronaldo among the 18 players, a starting 11 plus seven substitutes, he will name an hour or so before the 1600 GMT kickoff against Alaves on Sunday.

"I'm in the coach's hands," Ronaldo said after Del Bosque's squad was announced. "Whatever he decides will be for the good of Real Madrid."

"There'll be a lot of opportunities for me to play."