Liverpool’s Conor Bradley Faces New Concern After Northern Ireland Duty

International breaks often create unease for Liverpool supporters. Players carefully managed by the club’s medical and coaching staff suddenly move into different environments where routines shift, and the risk of injury increases.

Since Arne Slot’s arrival in 2024, Liverpool have enjoyed a welcome reduction in fitness setbacks. Slot’s training methods and emphasis on rotation helped the Reds capture the Premier League title last season. Yet one player continues to find himself at the centre of fitness discussions, and that is Conor Bradley.

Injury Worry During Northern Ireland Clash

Bradley has already faced a disrupted start to the 2025–26 campaign. He has managed just one Liverpool appearance so far, and while international duty provided him with valuable minutes, it also brought fresh concern.

The right-back featured heavily for Northern Ireland in their September fixtures, playing 167 minutes across two games. His standout performance came against Germany, where Florian Wirtz struck a superb free-kick in a 3-1 defeat for Northern Ireland.

According to the Belfast Telegraph, Bradley was among his side’s best players. He received an eight out of ten rating, praised for his ‘discipline’ and for ‘making some big tackles’, though one of those challenges earned him a booking. Crucially, he required treatment for what was described as a ‘facial injury’. Bradley played on, completing the match, but the incident will no doubt be noted by Liverpool’s medical staff as the Premier League resumes.

Key Role Awaiting at Anfield

This was meant to be Bradley’s breakthrough season at Liverpool, especially following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid. The 22-year-old was widely tipped to take ownership of the right-back position and deliver on the promise shown in flashes during his early senior career.

Micah Richards’ words from April still resonate, describing Bradley as a ‘special’ player. His pace, aggression and ability to defend one-on-one make him a unique option in Slot’s squad. However, persistent injuries have so far limited his ability to stake a claim for a regular role.

Selection Question Ahead of Burnley Trip

Liverpool face Burnley on Sunday, and Slot must decide whether Bradley is ready for selection. The international break has at least given him match fitness, but with competition heating up, his position is not guaranteed.

Dominik Szoboszlai has performed well when deployed at right-back in recent weeks, and Jeremie Frimpong is also nearing a return to fitness. Slot now has options, but if Bradley is fully cleared, there will be an expectation to see him included in the matchday squad.

For Northern Ireland, Bradley’s performances highlight his value and importance, even as his club career stutters through injuries. For Liverpool, the hope is that his resilience and determination finally bring a sustained run in the team.