'100 percent' fit Nadal returns to the fray in Davis Cup tie

World No. 1 Rafael Nadal will return to the court later this week in Spain's Davis Cup tie in Belgium and claims he is "100 percent" fit after his latest injury setback.

Nadal strained his left thigh during his shock quarterfinal defeat to Spanish teammate David Ferrer at the Australian Open a month ago.

There were fears it could signal a repeat of the injury problems that plagued Nadal in 2009, but the 24-year-old is returning to the fray for the World Group first round clash in Charleroi.

"If I am here, it is because, physically, I am 100 percent," he told his official website.

Nadal faces the possibility of playing two five-set matches in three days under the Davis Cup format, but he is confident of being able to cope.

"If the captain thinks I am the right player to start on Friday, I will do my best. We will see.

"I am very motivated," he added.

Spain are attempting to win back the Davis Cup after exiting in the quarterfinal stage, without Nadal, to France last year.

Serbia eventually went on to beat the French in December's final in Belgrade

Nadal has spent the time since his Australian Open upset to receive treatment and then resume training in his home of Mallorca.

He was given the all-clear to return for the Davis Cup tie where he will team up with Ferrer, Feliciano Lopez and Fernando Verdasco in a strong Spanish lineup, captained by Alberto Costa.

Belgium, heavily the underdogs despite playing at home, will be led by Xavier Malisse and Olivier Rochus when the action starts in the Spiroudome.

Nine-time grand slam champion Nadal will be defending three titles this season at the French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open after a triumphant 2010.