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Last Updated: Tuesday, 5 October, 2004, 11:46 GMT 12:46 UK

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Woodgate ready to return

Woodgate eyes Real test

Feature: An unpolished gem

Jonathan Woodgate is itching to return to action with Real Madrid after recovering from a thigh injury.

The 24-year-old defender has started training again in Spain and is eager to make his first start for Real since his �13.4m move from Newcastle in August.

"I want to be able to play as soon as possible, that is my aim," said Woodgate. "I've been feeling good and I have not had any problems."

Woodgate is set to play in a special friendly against Alcoron on 12 October.

The match against the Segunda B outfit was arranged so that the former Leeds player could test his fitness levels.

I am certain Owen will succeed, everyone needs time to adapt

Real Madid president
Florentino Perez

Woodgate, who made only 37 appearances for Newcastle, has not played since rupturing a thigh muscle in April.

Now, he is not only aiming to break into the Real team but he has set his sights on a return to the England side.

Woodgate has stayed behind in Spain while his team-mates Michael Owen and David Beckham have joined the England training squad.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's powerful president Florentino Perez has thrown his support behind Owen, who has been out-of-sorts at the Bernabeu.

Owen admits to Real doubts

The striker joined Real from Liverpool for �8m but he is yet to score after not being given a regular first-team place.

"I am certain Owen will succeed, everyone needs time to adapt," Perez told Canal Plus television.

"I am used to this kind of criticism, they also did the same with Luis Figo and Ronaldo."

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WATCH AND LISTEN

Interview: Jonathan Woodgate