Abou Diaby underwent ankle surgery in London this week, L’Equipe reports.

Diaby’s troubles began on 1 May 2006 with a fateful tackle by Sunderland’s Dan Smith.

That single incident shattered his ankle and tore several surrounding ligaments, sending the French international’s career into a tailspin.

All of Abou Diaby's injuries since May 2006 - courtesy PhysioRoom and Transfermarkt
All of Abou Diaby’s injuries since May 2006 – courtesy PhysioRoom and Transfermarkt

After 42 successive injuries over 9 years, Diaby left Arsenal for Marseille on a free during the Summer of 2015.

Diaby’s career seemed set to recover at Marseille: First appearing as a sub against Rennes on 18 March, then as a starter being subbed after 55 minutes off versus Bastia on 3 April.

He played his first full 90 minutes against Sochaux on 20 April.

The Frenchman was subbed off in his last game versus Guingamp on 21 August, succumbing to what is assumed is yet another ankle injury during training just four days later.

Now 30, it is not clear when, or if, he will be able to return.

raw