Back surgery for Adams could mean the end

Arsenal captain Tony Adams has had a back operation in the United States that could see his career finish at the age of 32.

The former England captain has had severe back problems for the last two years but has playen on in pain until the need for the operation became urgent. He will not play again until at least February and may have to consider retirment. While medical advances in the treatment of injuries to the knee and other joints have prolonged the careers of many players of the modern generation the back is still something that can end a footballer's playing life if injured.

Adams has faught back from alocoholism and ankle problems to lead Arsenal to a domestic double last season but back pain has persisted and led to his last Arsenal appearance against Lens being cut short at half time. He faces prolonged treatment on his condition after the operation and is already certain to miss England's friendly against world champions France at Wembley next February.