MADRID, Spain (AP) -Real Madrid midfielder Wesley Sneijder could return earlier than expected after training for the first time Tuesday since injuring his left knee during the preseason.
Sneijder performed brief yet intense running during the Spanish champion's training session on Tuesday, 38 days after being challenged clumsily by Arsenal's Abou Diaby in a preseason friendly in August.
The Netherlands midfielder had only been using weights until now.
"His return to the playing field was expected during November, in line with his estimated recovery time of three months. But the Dutchman worked hard during the first month of the injury and could be back sooner than planned," Real Madrid said on its Web site.
Sneijder kicked a ball for the first time since the injury, but with his right foot and not his left.
Madrid is hopeful the 24-year-old former Ajax player will soon be available after it lost its league opener.
The Spanish club is also chasing its first Champions League trophy since 2002.
