Liverpool FC defender Jon Flanagan undergoes new knee operation 
Liverpool FC defender Jon Flanagan has been forced to undergo a fresh knee operation which is likely to keep him out for several more months. The talented young full-back was operated on by Andy Williams, the same renowned specialist who conducted his previous operation, on Tuesday in London.
He left hospital on Wednesday evening but the ECHO understands he is expected to spend the next eight weeks on crutches in a devastating blow after he had begun full training with Liverpool again in March. Fans got the chance to see Academy graduate Flanagan play a full half in the recent Liverpool All-Stars game at Anfield and it was hoped he could soon start a competitive fixture for the U21s before preparing himself for a full pre-season.
While the defender has not been feeling any pain, scans of his knee highlighted a problem.
It was initially hoped an operation would not be necessary but after a second opinion was sought, the club have decided to err on the side of caution and have the work done.
It will be bitterly disappointing for the 22-year-old who has worked so hard to get back to fitness after suffering the injury on the American pre-season tour last year. His latest will be the third operation he has had on his knee since the injury.
That followed a breakthrough year for him in 2013/14, making 25 first team appearances including 17 after the turn of the year as Liverpool went on an astonishing run which saw them narrowly miss out on the title.
One of the season’s abiding memories was the celebration of Flanagan’s stunning goal against Spurs at White Hart Lane, his first for the club.
With the departure of Steven Gerrard at the end of the season, Flanagan is seen as a much-needed local influence in the dressing room by supporters who have been following his recovery closely, particularly with full-back positions continuing to be problematic and Glen Johnson heading for the exit doors at the end of the season.
Flanagan is also out of contract this summer but Brendan Rodgers has indicated he will play a big part in Liverpool’s future. He said previously: “He is a big part of the future here. He did remarkably well last year and showed he is player who can play for many years at this level.”
The Reds boss is expected to discuss the situation at tomorrow's press conference - which you can follow live on the ECHO's liveblog from 9am.
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/liverpool-fc-defender-jon-flanagan-9153540
