Samuel returns to Real squad for Leverkusen match

Argentine centre-back Walter Samuel has been included in the Real Madrid squad for their opening Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen after making a successful recovery from a knee injury.

The 26-year-old, who joined Real from AS Roma for 25 million euros in May, missed his club's first two league games after straining ligaments in his right knee during the return leg of a Champions League qualifier against Wisla Krakow on August 25.

But the Argentine international had no problems training alongside the rest of his team mates on Monday and is expected to start Wednesday's match at the Bay Arena.

Fellow defender Francisco Pavon was also declared fit after picking up a minor knock during Saturday's 1-0 win over Numancia, but England centre-half Jonathan Woodgate is still out as he recovers from a long-term thigh injury.