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Ron Vlaar’s hopes of finding a new club have taken a blow, after the Dutch international was ruled out of action for up to six months with a knee injury.

The 30-year-old defender left Aston Villa last month following the expiration of his contract, following three years at Villa Park.

Vlaar, who played a key role in his country’s third place finish at last year’s World Cup and in Villa’s run to the FA Cup final last season, had been linked with moves to both Manchester United and Southampton this summer, while Italian club Lazio were also believed to be keen.

But the Dutchman is now highly unlikely to play again in 2015, after undergoing a second surgery in six months.

Vlaar had knee ligament operation in January, but returned to action within a month.

(Image: Reuters)

But a recent MRI scan showed that Vlaar was again suffering from a torn medial Meniscus - albeit more severe - with the ligament having rolled back towards the rear of his knee joint.

Following surgery in Rotterdam on Wednesday, the former Feyenoord captain now faces 4-6 weeks on crutches, before three-four months rehabilitation.

"Part of being a professional athlete is learning how to deal with setbacks in your career, and having the mentality to come back stronger,” declared Vlaar in an open letter.

"I have faced tougher situations in my life and always managed to overcome them. I am proud of what I have achieved in my career and I am positive that with the support of the people close to me I will come back stronger again.

"I am already starting to feel the energy flowing through me, the button has been pushed and my mind is completely focused. There is only one thing in my mind and that is to be completely fit again!"

In pictures - Ron Vlaar in India with the Yojana Foundation: