Joe Gomez insisted he will return ‘better and stronger’ as he sent a message following surgery to repair a tendon in his left knee on Thursday.

The Liverpool defender required an operation after sustaining the issue during training with the England national team the previous day.

Gomez’s surgery was a success and though he is expected to be sidelined for a significant part of the remainder of 2020-21, his rehabilitation is now under way.

“The road to recovery has already begun,” the 23-year-old posted on social media this evening.

“I’ve been here before, I know what it takes and I’ll be back better and stronger than ever. I’m obviously gutted, but this is part of God’s plan and I believe everything happens for a reason.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their well wishes and messages of support. I’m focused on my recovery and supporting my teammates in every way I can. See you soon.”