The former Italian international has been sidelined since July 2008 due to a niggling back problem.

He spent two months in the United States to undergo treatment before returning to Milan to train at Milanello complex.

"I have been out for a long time and I had to take the problem seriously. I have done some hard work on my back and it has responded well," Nesta told reporters.

"Now I am just lacking match fitness - that is the final test. I have a great desire to get back out there and I want to get back to the top level.

"I feel ready and I think it will take at most a month to recover fully. However, I have been out for eight months and we'll have to see how my body responds."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti struggled to fill in for Nesta as the Rossoneri leaked 20 goals in 19 matches.

Watch Nesta in action