Reports have suggested that Rob Gronkowski plans to delay a fourth operation on his broken arm.

Earlier this week, it had been thought that the New England Patriots tight end was preparing for another operation to fit a new plate in his forearm, which he initially injured in November.

However, the Boston Herald believes that the 23-year-old is going to wait several more weeks while continuing a course of antibiotics to clear up an infection in the arm.

It is expected that further surgery will prevent Gronkowski from taking part in pre-season workouts for 10 weeks.