Ronaldo appeared as a 70th-minute substitute in the 1-0 Champions League win over FC Zurich, the Portugal international making his first appearance for Madrid since sustaining an ankle injury at the end of September.

The former Manchester United man was unable to mark his comeback with a goal, although he did come close right at the end when he was denied by a good save from Zurich goalkeeper Johnny Leoni diving low to his left.

Ronaldo, who only returned to full training on Friday, said: "I'm tired because I'm still not at 100%, but I'm sure I will return to be how I was before the injury, scoring goals, having good games and helping the team."

The £80million man, who scored nine goals in helping Madrid win their opening seven competitive games this season, has been sorely missed by the Spanish giants, who won just half of their 10 matches in his absence and were embarrassingly dumped out of the Copa del Rey by third tier Alcorcon.

He received a loud cheer from the Madrid supporters when he started warming up during the second half of the Zurich game, and then another ovation when he replaced club captain Raul.

"I had a very good reception and now I want to show them the best of me," added Ronaldo, who admits he is keen to play some part in Sunday's showdown with Barca at the Nou Camp.

"I want to play in the Clasico if I feel good, although that is the reasonability of the coach. In any case, with or without me, the team are first in La Liga and in their Champions League group.

"Good players always have to play. (Against Zurich) I didn't score, but I hope to do in the following game. It doesn't bother me if it's 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1, the important thing is to win."