(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-02-22 10:55

PARIS - AC Milan striker Ronaldo is due to leave hospital on Friday after the three-times World Player of the Year had knee surgery last week in Paris.

Medical staff in Paris say three-time former world footballer of the year Ronaldo, seen here being carried off the pitch on February 13, 2008, should be able to leave the clinic which operated on his left knee by the end of the week. [Agencies]

The Brazilian will attend a press conference at noon on Friday, the French hospital where he is recovering said in a statement.

Ronaldo, 31, had an operation on a ruptured left knee tendon after being injured playing for Milan in a 1-1 Serie A draw against Livorno.

He will not be able to do any sport for eight to nine months, doctors said. He should join a rehabilitation centre after leaving hospital.

Milan have yet to commit to a new contract for the player, who was making only his sixth appearance in an injury-plagued season.

Ronaldo's deal runs out in June and, with question marks hanging over his career,  the European champions are not guaranteeing him a fresh contract despite saying they hope he plays for them again.