Liverpool’s Convincing Victory Over Chelsea Highlighted by Bradley
Liverpool 4 – 1 Chelsea Premier League – Man of the Match
Conor Bradley
An incredible introduction to first-team football has been doubled down upon by another incredible performance by Liverpool’s new in-house superstar, Conor Bradley. As Trent Alexander Arnold sat watching from the substitutes bench, he must have been salivating at seeing the youngster that may just allow his move into midfield to become permanent.
Conor Bradley vs. Chelsea
81% Pass accuracy
3/5 Accurate long passes
4 Chances created
2 Assists
1/1 Shot on target
1 Goal
7/12 Duels won
3/3 Tackles wonLiverpool’s newest rising star just gets better and better pic.twitter.com/uyjKXTR0Eb
— The Tactical Times (@Tactical_Times) January 31, 2024
Bradley’s Impact in a High-Stakes Game
Within a game that mattered so much and carried an almighty amount of pressure, the maturity and all-round game of the 20-year-old was something to behold. As a modern-day fullback, the academy graduate has everything that is needed within an attacking and relentless team, especially one marshalled and selected by the outgoing managerial legend, Jürgen Klopp. It must have been a huge temptation for the German boss to simply recall his world-class vice-captain, who was able to garner valuable minutes in the weekend’s 5-2 demolition of Norwich. That FA Cup tie also featured a brilliant performance by Bradley, as he continues to offer much-needed assurance when so many players have been injured and lacking match fitness.
Key Moments from Conor Bradley
The opening goal was due in part to the energy and desire to win back possession, as the starting right back not only reclaimed the ball (for his team) but then strode on to deliver a clinical pass that became a huge assist for Diogo Jota. The confidence and stature of the young man’s game then rose exponentially, with the task of marking and overcoming Raheem Sterling being undertaken with conviction. There was a clear tactic by Chelsea to overload and target the relative novice, given the experience and brilliance of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez on the opposite side of the Reds defensive line. Each test was overcome and amongst the long list of duties, the man of the match then decided to gallop forward, before striking an unstoppable shot into the far corner of the opponent’s goal. Every question asked is being answered with excellence, which is only adding to the Reds’ chances of silverware this season.
The Continued Rise of Conor Bradley
The second half was a continuation of great form, which then saw yet another assist stem from the right foot of the advancing wideman. In delivering a perfect cross (into the Chelsea penalty box), it allowed the returning Dominik Szoboszlai to head firmly into the net, thereby ending the match as a contest.
Conor Bradley was unreal today and MOTM. But Alexis Mac Allister just put up a majestic performance. Only one Argentine midfielder on the pitch today, simply unbelievable. #LFC #LIVCHE pic.twitter.com/LTltmdN4pS
— Sajad (@SajadIqbalLFC) January 31, 2024
The Team’s Overall Performance and Upcoming Challenges
Throughout the game, the Argentina World Cup winner, Alexis Mac Allister, was once again superb, with control and aggression flooding through the middle of the pitch. His on and off-ball ability is now perfectly balanced, after a clear period of tactical training and instruction.
This evening, Chelsea came to Anfield and were rewarded with a dismantling that was fully deserved. Conor Bradley did not care for the riches or reputations of the visitors, as he delivered a magnificent and man-of-the-match-worthy display.
A trip to Arsenal awaits, where a real decision is now needed as to who is the deserving starting right back.
Pre-match Prediction;
Liverpool 3 – 1 Chelsea
Steven Smith