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ROME, Jan 31 (Reuters) - Italy forward Filippo Inzaghi is kicking a ball again in a bid to return to fitness for the World Cup after being injured in December, Corriere Dello Sport reported on Thursday.

The AC Milan striker, who scored 11 goals in all competitions for the club this season, damaged knee ligaments in a match against Chievo, arousing fears that he would not return to action this season.

"I think it will take about a month, without being too specific. We'll see if it's sooner," Inzaghi said. "When I'm ready to play, I'll return to talk. At the moment I prefer to remain silent and work hard."

If Inzaghi returns on schedule, he should be back for the last two months of the season and in time to get match fit before the World Cup in South Korea and Japan.

AC Milan have struggled to score goals in Inzaghi's absence, with big names such as Andriy Shevchenko, Jose Mari and Javi Moreno not performing well.

AC Milan have slipped down to fifth in Serie A, 11 points behind leaders Roma.