Stam eyes Old Trafford return

Jaap Stam is counting the days until he returns to Old Trafford with AC Milan following his exit from Manchester United in 2001.

Stam has recently undergone ankle surgery but hopes to be fit for the first leg of the Champions League clash with United on February 23.

“I was at Manchester United for three years and will now return as an opponent,” Stam told www.acmilan.com.

“It will be great to return to Old Trafford and meet my old team and fans. It will be a difficult game as they are a strong side as we are, but we will want to win there.

“I want it to be special and I want Milan to win everything; the league and the Champions League,” added Stam, who has had to remain busy over the winter break as he continues his rehabilitation.

“I feel fine and even during the holiday break, I continued to train and got back to Milanello on December 28. I am back running, everything is progressing well and I will be ready to play soon.”

As he nears his comeback, Stam insists he made the right decision to opt for surgery, despite now having to force his way into an in-form side.

“I felt a lot of pain, especially when I ran,” he explained. “It was a difficult decision to have an operation but I had to have it even if it meant being out for a time.

“The team have been playing well up until now. This is important for the side and the fans. It is different for me sitting in the stands but I still feel part of it and now I really want to get back playing. I am feeling good and I can see the finish line coming in terms of getting back.”