Brazilian striker Ronaldo

Brazil (AP)

Ronaldo could make his debut for Corinth-ians in early March in a match against archrival Palmeiras, local media reported yesterday.

The Globo Esporte website quoted Corinthians coach Mano Menezes as saying that Ronaldo should begin training with the rest of the team by mid-February and be ready to play against Palmeiras on March 8.

Since he was contracted last month, 32-year-old Ronaldo has been training apart from the team in an effort to lose weight and fully recover from left knee surgery nearly a year ago.

"Things are progressing smoothly and when the time is right, Ronaldo will start training with the rest of the team," Menezes said.

Ronaldo signed a one-year deal with the Sao Paulo club with a one-year option. It included a clause allowing him to cancel it at any time.

Corinthians returned to the Brazilian league this year after spending 2008 in the second division.