Talus hole diagnosed eighteen months after injury

Hi all,

I sprained my ankle 18 months - never healed and finally via the NHS got a MRI, 18 months later. Consultant informed me a I have a hole and it appears to be missing bone and this is where I am confused. I am confused because, is the bone still there - I can't see and where has it gone, did it just dissolve ! ?

The consultant told me no more football and running but it was all very hurried and I came out with more questions than answers. He also spoke about having surgery to smooth the area out, if it hurt. I have kind of come to live it with a little but it is a bit stiff most of the time. So my questions is, has anyone had this injury, what you suggest having the surgery? I am or was in tip top shape for a 42 yr old man....but this might change things.

Any advice is most helpful.
Attachment 1290
I have attached the MRI still and you'll notice a heart shaped white area which is my hole