Liverpool vice-captain Conor Bradley knows he will be replaced by Trent Alexander-Arnold when he returns from injury.
But that didn’t stop him fighting for a starting spot under Jurgen Klopp until the German’s emotional departure from Anfield at the end of the season. “Whenever you get the chance, take it,” the 20-year-old said ahead of Friday’s announcement ahead of today’s FA Cup clash with Norwich.
“That’s what I was trying to do. We miss Trent. He is truly amazing. He is probably one of the best right backs in the world. “But I will do my best to serve the team.”But despite his admiration for his impeccable mentor, Bradley has made no secret of his desire to earn a regular first-team role. He added:
“I understand that I am fighting for the best player and shirt. So it will definitely be difficult, but you have to do your best and give the coach something to think about. “The active defender has now made 12 senior appearances for the Reds, including the 3-0 Carabao Cup win against the Canaries in September 2021.
Bradley’s quick adaptation to senior football after an impressive loan spell at Bolton Wanderers has helped Liverpool’s managers ensure a smooth transition. “We’ve been training and preparing hard since I came here as a 16-year-old,” said the Northern Ireland international.
“We are ready to get into the first team and give good results. I would like to thank the academy coaches, Barry Leutas and everyone who helped me. “They prepared me to come in and take advantage of the opportunity when it came and hopefully that will happen.”Despite his impressive impact as a right-back, Bradley is humble enough to admit he still struggles with nerves before crossing the white line. He said:
“Of course I’m nervous, I’m nervous before every game. But they have good nerves. I am very excited because this is an opportunity that I have been waiting for for the last two years. To do that, we have to keep doing well and getting results.”Playing alongside respected captain Virgil van Dijk certainly helps.
Because the Dutch tend to help Bradley at trial. Bradley had this to say about Liverpool’s brilliant captain: “He always tells me to play my game, be confident and do what I do. I think Virgil is the best centre-back in the world and he’s fun to play with and it helps a lot to play with him.
“He’s always there to talk to you and help you and he’s just great.”But that’s not the only thing on Bradley’s agenda at Liverpool. He also wants a goal. The teenager said: “Hopefully I can do well on Sunday if I get the chance. I should have scored my first goal at Bournemouth last weekend.
