Conor Bradley was dealt a season-ending injury blow during Liverpool's draw at Arsenal last week with the defender taking to social media to give an update on his progress
Conor Bradley had to be stretchered off at Arsenal last week
Conor Bradley had to be stretchered off at Arsenal last week(Image: Liverpool FC, Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Conor Bradley admits his latest injury is a "big blow" but his "comeback starts now" as the Liverpool star looks to recover from another injury setback after being stretchered off against Arsenal.
The Northern Irishman has been hugely impressive whenever he's taken to the pitch, but since making his debut for the Reds he's missed large periods through injury. He's now set for another lengthy spell on the sidelines.
His injury came in bizarre circumstances as, with the clock winding down, he attempted to clear a ball. Bradley immediately went down with what has now been confirmed as a serious knee injury. He will undergo surgery and will miss the remainder of the Premier League season.
That also means the defender will miss Northern Ireland's World Cup play-off tie with Italy in March, but it is unclear whether he would be fit in time for this summer's World Cup should Michael O'Neill's side qualify through the play-offs.
Bradley has issued a statement of defiance on social media as he wrote: "A big blow but surgery is done so the comeback starts now. It won’t be for a little while but I already can’t wait to get back playing for @liverpoolfc and @northernireland. Thanks for all the support."
A number of his Liverpool team-mates have issued messages of support. Andy Robertson said: "Comeback starts now mate" and along the same lines Ibrahima Konate commented: "You will come back stronger my Little Brother".
Liverpool admitted there is "no timeframe being placed" yet on the 22-year-old's return. Bradley had made 21 appearances this season, but equally had missed a number of matches with a hamstring problem. Even though Bradley will be unavailable to Arne Slot it is understood that the Reds have no plans to attack the transfer market to find a replacement.
The defender had to receive treatment on the pitch, but will now miss the season
The defender had to receive treatment on the pitch, but will now miss the season(Image: AP)
View 2 Images
The situation surrounding Bradley's injury at the Emirates led to huge criticism for Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli who attempted to shove his opponent off the pitch as he received treatment. Gary Neville declared the Brazilian's action a "disgrace" with the player later apologising.
He said on social media: "Conor and I have messaged and I have already apologised to him. I really didn't understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment. I want to say I'm deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery."
Despite the feeling of anger the Arsenal ace will receive no further punishment from the Football Association, with the matter considered dealt with as it was seen at the time by referee Anthony Taylor.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Content Image
Content Image