Cicinho back by March.

Real Madrid's medical team say that defender Cicinho should be back in action in March after undergoing surgery on his inured knee.

The 26-year-old damaged the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee playing against Real Betis on September 23 and it was clear that he was set for a long spell on the sidelines.

Initial reports suggested that the Brazilian full-back would be out of action for the entire campaign but following an operation to correct the problem, Dr Alfonso del Corral, who carried out the procedure, reckons he will play again this season.

"The operation has been a success," he revealed. "The player is feeling high-spirited and happy. We are in no real hurry (for his return), but we expect him to be able to play again in March."

Real did not miss the South American on Tuesday, hammering Dynamo Kiev 5-1 in the Champions League.