Ronaldo frustrated by bench role at Real Madrid

Brazil striker Ronaldo says he does not understand what he has to do to earn a return to the Real Madrid starting line up under coach Fabio Capello.

"The worst thing about not playing is not having the confidence of the coach and not knowing how to win it back," Ronaldo said.

The 30-year-old international was Real's top scorer with 14 league goals last season despite suffering a number of niggling injuries.

But with Capello now installed as coach, Ronaldo has lost out to Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy, with the Italian rigidly adhering to a system that plays with one out-and-out striker.

Ronaldo underwent a minor knee operation after the World Cup and missed the start of the season.

But since then he has only played 100 minutes in the league and the Champions League, has yet to score a goal and has yet to start a game.

"I don't know what the criteria are to win a place in the starting line up. I am in very good shape, what I have to do is to try and prove it," said Ronaldo.

"Capello doesn't have faith with me at the moment. If he did he would have played me more."

Sporting director Predrag Mijatovic urged Ronaldo to be patient, saying he was still part of the club's plans.

"It is up to the player because the coach has already said he wants him in his plans," Mijatovic told Spanish media.

"I am sure he will have more opportunities to demonstrate his abilities in the near future."

Mijatovic also said that Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano should apologise to the club for his spat with Capello.

"I would like it if he would apologise to the club in the next few days. It is up to him."