New Ron can spur Milan

England coach Fabio Capello says the acquisition of Ronaldinho has made AC Milan favourites for the Serie A title.

Milan have not been champions of their country since 2004 and last season they finished a dismal fifth, missing out on Champions League qualification.

However, they have bought well over the summer, bringing in Italy international defender Gianluca Zambrotta from Barcelona and Arsenal's French midfielder Mathieu Flamini.

But the piece de la resistence was surely the capture of Ronaldinho, whom Capello believes can return to his top form.

"It is lucky for Milan that he is going to the Olympics," said Capello. "He will return match-fit and motivated following his year off."

The twice former world player of the year enjoyed three successful seasons at Barcelona, winning two titles and the Champions League, but lost his way last season amid rumours his commitment was waning as his love for the night-life affected his performances and his attitude to training.

But Capello, who managed Milan to four titles in five years in the early 1990s, believes the Brazilian can still get back to his form of old.

"If he has the desire to get back to his best, to rediscover his old self, to become once again one of the best three players in the world, he's gone to the right place," said Capello. "Milan has everything to put him back into orbit."

Ronaldinho is preparing for the Olympics in Hanoi with the national side. The trickster has said he wants to add a gold medal to the vast amount of prizes in his trophy cabinet.