LIVERPOOL goalkeeper Brad Jones has revealed his son Luca’s leukaemia has returned despite a stem-cell transplant performed on the five-year-old last September.

“The doctors always tell you there is a chance it will come back,” said Jones, currently on loan with Derby. “

We hoped that it wouldn’t, but unfortunately it has. They say that some people have three transplants and survive, so it’s not the end of the world, but it is a big dent in his recovery.”

Jones was forced to pull out of the World Cup last summer on the eve of Australia’s opening game against Germany upon learning of his diagnosis, and Liverpool have pledged to continue to help raise awareness of the need for blood and bone marrow donors.

Derby were aware of the situation when they signed him for the remainder of the season and have promised to grant him compassionate leave whenever he wishes it.