Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley were both late casualties of Liverpool's 2-0 win over Real Madrid
Sport
Conor Bradley of Liverpool showing his appreciation to the fans at the end of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Liverpool FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Anfield on November 27, 2024
Liverpool have been handed a double injury scare in their 2-0 victory over Real Madrid. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo clinched victory for the Reds, but they were left fretting about the fitness of both Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley after the final whistle ahead of their top-of-the-table clash with Man City on Sunday.
Bradley was forced off late in the second half after pulling up following one marauding run forward. Starting at right-back up against Kylian Mbappe, the Northern Ireland international was a standout performer for Arne Slot’s side against the La Liga giants.
Starting in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was only fit enough for a place on the bench after overcoming a hamstring injury, the 21-year-old recorded an assist for the Reds’ opener on the night as he played in Alexis Mac Allister.
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Serenaded with renditions of ‘There’s only one Conor Bradley!’ countless times on the night, the full-back appeared to suffer a hamstring problem late on after bursting forward on the attack.
Clutching the back of his leg, he eventually fell to the ground before Joe Gomez was signalled to come on in his place. The defender was afforded a standing ovation as he limped off before being embraced by Slot.
Meanwhile, Konate collapsed in pain after the final whistle. Receiving treatment on the pitch, he slowly limped off the pitch and down the tunnel but was in visible discomfort.
Liverpool are next in action on Sunday at home to Real Madrid. If Bradley is ruled out of the clash, Alexander-Arnold is poised to be handed an instant recall. Gomez is the alternative if the England international is not fit enough to start, though he is also an option at centre-back along with Jarell Quansah to partner Virgil van Dijk if Konate misses out.
The injuries to the pair are an unwanted headache for Slot just as Liverpool's injury woes appeared to be easing up.