Surgery for star Swan Johnson

SYDNEY Swans heartbreak kid Alex Johnson will go under the knife today at the hands of the surgeon who previously saved his AFL career.

Nine days after the devastation of a sixth ruptured knee, a successful operation today in Melbourne could be a key factor in Johnson’s looming decision on whether or not he will attempt yet another brave comeback.

As the inspirational star contemplates his next big step on and off the field, it’s a question of how much can one man stand.

Will the trauma of another major surgery prompt him to retire? Or will he simply do what he’s done five times before and boldly head to the rehabilitation den and fight his way back?

Johnson will be treated by internationally renowned knee surgeon Julian Feller, who in 2015 told the then 23-year-old he could get him back on the park with a bone graft and reconstructive surgery.

At the time, Johnson had consulted five surgeons, three who had recommended retire- ment, yet Feller gave the defender hope.

Nobody knows what Johnson’s thought process has been since his latest careerthreatening setback at the MCG two Sundays ago.

However, the fact there has been no announcement about his playing future to date suggests he may be at least waiting to see what the medical prognosis is post-surgery.

Johnson’s previous five operations have been on his left knee, but this time it’s his right leg and therefore the goalposts are slightly different.

Feller is a man Johnson trusts implicitly.

Teammate Zak Jones revealed Johnson has carried on like it’s business as usual, as players try to support their friend in every way possible.

“It’s important that we support him and stay around him as much as we can, and as much as he wants us to be around him,” Jones said.

“You’ve got to be there to support him and he’ll have his family and friends. It’s important we stay in contact with him.”