Flintoff’s chances of playing again this summer look slim after yesterday’s news that he needs a third operation on the joint that causes him so much pain when he bowls.

The chronic injury raises doubts 29-year-old Flintoff will ever be able to regain his status as the world’s best all-rounder – and if he cannot bowl again, his Test place will come under threat.

Flintoff, however, is adamant that, like captain Michael Vaughan, he will battle back from the injury.

“Having bounced back from ankle surgery before I know how much work is ahead of me but I’m desperate to get back playing for England and determined to overcome this setback as soon as possible,” he said.

Andrew Flintoff having his foot strapped during a practice session yesterday

“I’m bitterly disappointed to face another operation on my ankle as I really thought I was making progress with the injury over the past few weeks. But after giving it a strong workout this week, it now seems that an operation is the only option.”