Surgery ends Higuain´s season

Gonzalo Higuain’s season is over after the Real Madrid striker relented to surgery on his troublesome back injury.

Higuain has not played since suffering a herniated disc in late November, though he initially delayed going under the knife in the hope he could return following a period of non-invasive rehabilitation.

But the Argentina international underwent further tests in his homeland over the winter break, and Real have confirmed the bad news that Higuain will not play again this season.

“The persistence of pain and of the herniated disc moved experts to advise surgery as the next step,” a club statement read.

“This decision has been accepted by the player, his family and the club. The conservative treatment has been good for the player’s biomechanics.”

“The work done till now will allow for an easier surgical procedure, better post-operational results and a shorter rehabilitation period.”

“It has been agreed by all the aforementioned parties that a decision will be reached within the next 48 hours regarding the medical centre where the operation will take place and the surgeon who will perform it.”

Real boss Jose Mourinho will reportedly look to bring in another striker on a short-term loan to cover Higuain’s absence.

“It is a shame because Higuain is a fantastic person and we will lose him for the remainder of the season,” Mourinho told reporters earlier this week.

“Kaka was missing from our side for six months, and we were able to create a certain squad. Now, we must create another minus Higuain.”

“The formation must adapt to the circumstances, and we must create an equilibrium knowing that we have many matches still to play.”

“Certain players will need to provide cover in roles that are not their own, with another system of playing. For me, it is a new challenge with little time to teach it.”