Ricardo Costa resumes training after miraculous recovery

Expected six-month recuperation cut by half

Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Costa has returned to light training, after an incredible recovery from a knee injury that had initially ruled him out until next year.

Costa suffered the blow during a league cup match in July, ahead of the new Bundesliga season, following a 4m euro summer switch from Portuguese champions FC Porto.

Wolfsburg manager Felix Magath ruled the 26-year-old out for six months, but having undergone his rehabilitation in Portugal, Costa has stunned the medical department at the Volkswagen-Arena with his rapid recovery after just three months.

“Fit as a fiddle”

“It is like beginning a new life,” Costa said on his return to training. “Injuries happen in football, but I am feeling as fit as a fiddle and am convinced that my knee is okay. I am glad to be able to train again.

“Of course I want to play again as soon as possible and I will work and train hard. I hope to be ready from the beginning of next month, but the decision lies with the manager. I have been watching all the matches and I’ve seen the team progressing steadily over time.

“I must thank Dr Jose Carlos Noronho and the medical department of FC Porto for their support. I did all my recovery in Portugal, keeping the club (Wolfsburg) informed of my treatment.

“The national side? I must only think about my work here, after that the people responsible for those decisions will decide.”