Conor Bradley is four Premier League games into his Liverpool career but Sunday’s Carabao Cup final opponents Chelsea already know that the right-back is a gamechanger. In their league encounter last month, the Northern Ireland international created two goals and scored another in a thumping victory to announce his arrival on the scene.
Ben Chilwell, who played against him that evening, struggled for 45 minutes as he soon realized that despite Bradley’s inexperience, he possessed a bold skill. Every time Liverpool attacked, the 20-year-old had control of the wing and he confidently used it to his benefit, dribbling forward and setting up chances.
For most, being a young right-back in the Liverpool academy must feel like a forlorn method of chasing dreams. Bradley will have seen his path to the first team not necessarily blocked, but with a huge Trent Alexander-Arnold-shaped hurdle for him to navigate. Those with less talent or self-confidence may not have embraced the challenge of competing with the England international but Bradley has done that and more. His form could accelerate a permanent move into midfield for Alexander-Arnold, an exciting prospect for Liverpool.
Andy Robertson says that Conor has proven himself at the highest level. Despite the hype surrounding him, Conor has consistently performed week after week. Andy reminds him before every game and during training that being the new kid on the block comes with expectations, but Conor has handled it impressively.
It is two and a half years since his Liverpool debut in a League Cup win over Norwich but Bradley has used the time well to mature into an integral part of the squad. He enjoyed an impressive season on loan at League One Bolton, helping them reach the playoffs and win the EFL Trophy in front of 80,000 people, making him no stranger to Wembley. He won the affection of colleagues and supporters, picking up the players’ player of the year and the fan equivalent at the club’s award ceremony.
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Due to Bradley’s impressive performance in the third division, several clubs expressed interest in offering him further education. However, Klopp was determined to retain him and his trust was rewarded during pre-season when Bradley proved he was prepared for a higher level. Unfortunately, an injury prevented him from playing until late November, but a few appearances in cup matches were enough to convince Klopp that Bradley was ready for the Premier League. He made his debut against Bournemouth last month and has not looked back since. According to Robertson, Bradley is a hard worker and a great teammate who takes advice from others and remains level-headed. He is a model young player, always putting in extra work in the gym and on the training ground. Robertson believes he has a bright future ahead, but consistency will be key in his success.
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Klopp can’t help but smile at the mention of Bradley, as he is now able to thrive on a team competing for four trophies. While many praise his exceptional skills, his attitude is often the first topic of conversation, as it fuels his drive for self-improvement. Since Bradley joined the team as a right-back, the Liverpool groundskeeper has had to put in extra effort to maintain the grass on the flanks due to his constant movement up and down the field.
The individual, who is from Castlederg, Northern Ireland, is a member of a tightly-knit family. They were frequent attendees at Bolton matches last season and even traveled to Wembley to witness him win the EFL Trophy. Tragically, during his rise at Liverpool, Bradley’s father passed away at the start of the month. He was given time off to grieve and it is admirable that he has been able to stay focused during such a challenging time in a young man’s life.
Bradley’s chance to play in the first team came when his colleagues got injured. Despite this, he has played well and helped Liverpool win eight games and draw one in the last nine matches. Robertson acknowledges that Bradley has suddenly become one of the more experienced players in the squad due to recent events. He also notes how quickly things can change in football.
Klopp has revealed that his upcoming departure is due to feeling drained, but Bradley has been able to reignite the German’s joy and passion for football when given the opportunity. It’s not just the manager who needs a fresh start, as Liverpool’s injury struggles and busy schedule have taken a toll on the team. Bradley’s unwavering determination will surely benefit his more experienced teammates. It may be a coincidence, but since his involvement, Liverpool has scored four goals in every Premier League match.
Eleven months have passed since Bradley’s last visit to Wembley, and there have been many changes for the defender. However, he remains the same courageous full-back who will not be intimidated by the event. He has previous experience and will return in the future.
Source: theguardian.com
