Bayern´s Ribery targets Champions League return

Bayern Munich's French star Franck Ribery has targeted a September return date for the German giants' Champions League campaign as he continues his rehabilitation from ankle surgery.

The 25-year-old midfielder is still in plaster after an operation to repair the ligaments he damaged in France's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Italy in Zurich which knocked them out of last month's Euro 2008.

Having done the German league and cup double last season with Bayern, Ribery is hoping to be part of their Champions League challenge when the Group Stage matches begin on September 16/17.

Ribery is in Munich as new Bayern coach Jurgen Klinsmann this week began preparing his side for the new Bundesliga season which starts on August 15 when Bayern begin their title defence against Hamburg at the Allianz Arena.

“I am very pleased to be back in Munich again and I am hoping to be back in the team in September,” he said on the club's website.

Ribery was due to be examined by Bayern's doctors on Wednesday and a more precise date for his return is expected to be announced soon.