Woodgate could return this season - Real

England defender Jonathan Woodgate could make his competitive debut for Real Madrid before the end of the season.

Woodgate joined the Spanish giants from Newcastle last year but has yet to kick a ball in anger for Real after suffering long-term injury problems.

However, medical tests in Finland have revealed the player’s injured left leg has now healed.

Now the player will begin a fitness and rehabilitation plan the club hope will make him eligible to play before the end of the current campaign.

A statement posted on club website, www.realmadrid.es, said: “The player (Woodgate), who returned to Madrid on Thursday, will follow the plan outlined by Dr Orava with the objective of being fully recovered before the end of the season.”

Previously the club had indicated Woodgate would not play again this campaign.