Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole has claimed that he is ready for a "tough battle" as he aims to overcome recent kidney failure.

Earlier this month, the 44-year-old revealed that he has been receiving treatment at the Manchester Royal Infirmary after being diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis.

Cole, who won five Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy and two FA Cups with United, was forced to withdraw from David Beckham's UNICEF match at Old Trafford due to his condition.

"Fingers crossed, come spring or summer, but I've got a long way to go," Cole told MUTV. "I know it's going to be a tough battle but I know I'll get there.

"Not being able to do what I want and not being able to keep fit has been the toughest thing, I think. When you're fit, you take things for granted, like getting up in the morning and going for a run, stuff like that. I realise I can't do that anymore and it could be like that for the next four or five months."

Cole spent six years playing for the Red Devils.