Liu's Return Date In Doubt

The last news on the Liu Xiang injury is not quite encouraging. According to Reuters, the recovery for Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang, faces another set back. Upon consultation in the U.S., the former 110-hurdle world record holder was informed by medical advisers in the U.S. that surgery is necessary on his Achille's injury.

"Also, the three calcifications between his bone and tendon could not be removed in any other way but through surgery," said Xiang's coach showing scans of Xiang's foot.

This of course, is the same injury that forced Xiang to withdraw from the Beijing Games. The 2008 indoor season is definately out of the question and now the 2009 season is tenous at best because of his Achilles injury.

Previously his coach said that surgery was last case option to remedy the injury and now it appears to be the best solution at hand.

Jay Hicks for Prerace Jitters.