Conor Bradley applauding Liverpool fans and Ronald Araujo in action
Conor Bradley applauding Liverpool fans and Ronald Araujo in action
The Northern Irish international had begun making a case to be the Reds' long-term right-back option in the months following Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure.
However, in his absence, new contenders have emerged for the position and the expectation that he would immediately be installed as first choice upon his return has now diminished.
Dominik Szoboszlai offers the attacking intent that Liverpool would want out wide, while Jeremie Frimpong's pace is certainly a big threat for any opposition, and Joe Gomez is another option.
However, there is another player who will make Bradley's comeback all the more difficult.
And that is summer loanee and new Anfield cult hero Ronald Araujo, who has been performing excellently at right-back.
Ronald Araujo is giving Liverpool a defensive dimension Conor Bradley cannot match
Liverpool have traditionally favoured fullbacks who offer plenty going forward, but Araujo is showing the value of having a more defensively minded option.
His statistics across the Premier League suggest a greater balance is now being seen at the Anfield side.
According to Data.MB, among all full-backs in the Premier League, Araujo leads the way in numerous defensive stats.
Per 90, the Uruguayan wins the most aerial duels with a total of 3.63. He is proving to have sublime anticipation.
Araujo leads fullbacks in England's top flight for interceptions per 90, with seven, and even when adjusted for possession, he retains the top spot with 9.44.
Elsewhere in his game, he is third in possessions won per 90, with 10.75.
Overall, while Liverpool have been associated with attacking fullbacks, the dynamic of a more defensive option on one side and an offensive player on the other wing has been working wonders.
Even though Bradley will need time to get up to match fitness and be put into a position where he can start a string of games, it is no guarantee he will even be considered a starter now.
When is Bradley expected back?
Liverpool keep moving the goalposts when it comes to Bradley's return, and that makes sense.
They do not want to rush him back into action, especially after such a long-term blow.
However, multiple recent reports suggest the right-back could be available for selection in December.
But due to his long absence, it likely won't be until 2027 that he becomes a regular feature off the bench or as a starter.
Especially seeing as Liverpool are stocked at right-back with numerous different options.