Conor Bradley Injury Adds to Liverpool’s Growing Defensive Concerns | OneFootball

Conor Bradley Injury Blow Adds to Liverpool’s Defensive Woes

Liverpool’s preparations for a crucial week have been dealt a significant blow with Conor Bradley limping off during their 2-2 draw against Aston Villa. The Northern Irish right-back, who came on as a second-half substitute for Trent Alexander-Arnold, was forced off late in the game after pulling up during a sprint.

Setback for Bradley Ahead of Key Fixtures

Arne Slot did little to ease concerns over Bradley’s condition in his post-match interview. The Liverpool boss admitted he was not optimistic about the defender’s chances of featuring in their upcoming clashes with Manchester City and Newcastle United.

“No [I haven’t seen him], he still has to come in,” said Slot. “We don’t know yet, but I would be completely surprised if he’s involved in the Sunday game [vs Manchester City] or in the Wednesday game vs Newcastle United. So, you can assume that won’t happen.”

Bradley has already endured a frustrating season with injuries, missing 11 matches after suffering a hamstring strain against Real Madrid in November. His latest setback only adds to Liverpool’s growing concerns in defence as they enter a defining phase of the campaign.

Defensive Depth Stretched Thin

Slot’s squad has been stretched by injuries in recent weeks, with Joe Gomez undergoing surgery that will likely keep him out until the latter stages of the season. “Joe Gomez has had surgery, out for a long time. He may be back before the end of the season,” Slot confirmed.

Photo IMAGO

Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold were also managed carefully against Villa, with the latter still regaining full fitness after a previous injury. The timing of these setbacks couldn’t be worse, as Liverpool prepare to travel to the Etihad for a title-defining showdown with Manchester City before hosting Newcastle just days later.

Who Can Fill in at Right-Back?

With Bradley sidelined and Alexander-Arnold still not fully match-fit, Liverpool face a dilemma at right-back. James McConnell, an academy graduate, has been used in the role before and could be an emergency option. Jarell Quansah also deputised in the position when Bradley was forced off against Villa, showing the versatility that Slot may need to rely on in the coming fixtures.

Liverpool fans will be hoping for positive news on Bradley’s condition, but with Manchester City looming large, Slot may have to get creative with his defensive solutions.