Brazil's Ronaldinho (R) challenges Algeria's Karim Matmour (L) during their international friendly soccer match at Mosson stadium in Montpellier August 22, 2007. [REUTERS/Philippe Laurenson FRANCE]

Brazilian star Ronaldinho cheered his return to the national soccer team on Wednesday after Brazil's 2-0 win in a friendly game against Algeria, where he had supplied a goal and set up another with a pass.

"It is very nice to come back and help Brazil in its new phase.Now, I have to get on with my work," the Barcelona player told Brazil's Globo television network, from the Mosson Stadium, in the French city of Montpellier.

Ronaldinho came on as a substitute at half time alongside Kaka, a Milan midfielder. Spending so long on the substitutes bench was described as a punishment by analysts: both players had refused a call up from Brazil for the Copa America in July.

"This was a great comeback. It could not have been better. The team was facing a very motivated rival, but we managed a good victory," he said.

"I hope to be able to remain in the national team. I am very motivated for both the friendlies and the World Cup elimination games which will start very soon," he said.

Ronaldinho will return to Spain on Wednesday ahead of the Monday ceremony where he will become a Spanish citizen. This will free up one place on the Barcelona squad for another foreign player.