FORGOTTEN Premier League star Gerard Deulofeu has undergone surgery for the third time in his career as he revealed huge scars on his knees.
The 28-year-old, who currently plays for Udinese, is set to be out injured for most of 2023.
Deulofeu took to social media to post a photo with his children and wife while showing the nasty-looking marks going under the knife had left.
The winger was in outstanding form in Serie A, netting two goals and grabbing six assists in 16 matches this season.
This carried on his impressive form from the previous campaign where he found the back of the net 13 times.
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Deuolfeu came through the ranks at Barcelona before having spells in the Premier League with Everton and Watford.
He also had time at AC Milan and Sevilla on top of being capped by Spain four times.
Deulofeu picked up his latest knee problem in November with his career continuing to be plagued by injuries.
He needed surgery after rupturing his cruciate ligament in 2020 and following various knee problems in 2021.
On his most recent setback, the upbeat star said: "For me it is not a tragedy. It's a new opportunity.
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"It's the third time, unfortunately, that I've had surgery, but each time I've been able to see and feel how it has helped me to grow both personally and professionally.
"That's why I'm going to face this hard process, with all that it means, in the best way possible, being happy and being with the people who bring me joy and hope to my life.
"This will make me overcome it again and take advantage of this time as a new opportunity. Thank you for every message of support, I feel very close to you."