Former World Footballer Ronaldo denied Thursday he was using his new club Corinthians as a springboard to be back to Europe.

Ronaldo, who has recovered from a serious knee injury he sustained in February at AC Milan, has agreed terms with Brazil's second most popular club in a move he hopes will revive his career.

Ronaldo told Globo television by saying: "I'm not even thinking about returning to Europe.

"I'm not thinking about using Corinthians as a trampoline. My mind is set on staying in Brazil."

Ronaldo, 32, ruptured a tendon in his left knee in a Serie A game for AC Milan against Livorno in February and later left the Italian club.

Even before the injury, Ronaldo had been struggling for fitness and form and had not played for Brazil since his much criticized performance at the 2006 World Cup.

He has scored a record 15 goals in three World Cups.

(Xinhua News Agency December 12, 2008)