Woodgate, who left Newcastle in summer 2004 to join Real for £13.4m, made his full debut against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday evening.

Real Madrid won the match 3-1, although things did not entirely go to plan for the former Leeds United defender, who scored an own goal and was sent off.

"That’s not the way I dreamed my debut would be. I’m in shock," said Woodgate.

"I just can’t believe I got sent off and scored an own goal on my debut — but that’s life. But I have had worse things happen than this and I know I will come back strong."

His appearance is a timely boost not only to Real coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo but also to Eriksson, who has been monitoring his progress.

"I have been dreaming about this every day and night since I came to Real Madrid," added Woodgate.

"It's become my obsession. I have been waiting for this for a long time. The injury doesn't bother me at all. Thanks to all the doctors and physios I am fine," he said.

Real have had a difficult start to the season, having lost two of their first three Primera Liga matches, conceding seven goals, and Woodgate's return should add some steel to their sometimes fragile defence.

"I want Woodgate to start playing," Luxemburgo said. "Life is a constant risk, but I think he's ready. He's been training well and has come through five or six practice matches. I think he's up for it."

Woodgate is determined to make his mark in Spain, albeit rather belatedly.

"Rather than dream about scoring, I dream my team can keep a clean sheet, because if we do that we will be a step closer to winning," Woodgate said.

Woodgate has made five appearances for England, his last being in March 2004 when he played against Sweden.

But he wants to focus on domestic form before trying to force his way back into England's World Cup plans.

"It is still very early to talk about that, my first aim is to play football again," added Woodgate.

"I will try to do well for Real Madrid and if I get some consistency then I can say I am available for Mr Eriksson, but at the moment I am logically just thinking about Madrid."