Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is to undergo surgery on his road to recovery from the fractured leg he suffered in December.
Gomez hasn't featured for the Reds since their 3-1 win at Burnley, following a challenge from defender Ben Mee.
Liverpool's medical staff have advised Gomez to undergo surgery "a more complete recovery".
The Reds are yet to place a timescale on the defender's latest setback - but according to Liverpool journalist Paul Joyce - he'll play again this season.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp: "It's a blow for the boy and for us, because prior to the injury, he was in such fantastic shape.
"But he is too valuable to take any risk with, both for our present and future, so we get this procedure done and he comes back when he's ready.
"His attitude during this rehab has been outstanding, but it just hasn't healed as we'd have liked, so we will make this intervention and then he will come back."
Gomez added: "Obviously being out for longer than we'd first hoped is hard to swallow but it's part and parcel of the industry.
"It was an injury caused by an impact, like nearly all the injuries I've had in my career, so I know it's just a case of when it's fully healed I'm good to go again.
"The hardest part is not being able to help the team and contribute on the pitch at the moment, so it's important I come back ready to go and this procedure will help with that.
"My only focus is getting back for Liverpool as soon as possible and I can promise the supporters I'll be working hard every day to do that."