Northern Irish media react to Conor Bradley’s ‘energetic’ performance vs Germany
Conor Bradley is still breaking through into the Liverpool starting 11.
Bradley has seen the start to his season hindered by an injury suffered during pre-season, which saw him miss both Liverpool’s Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace and the 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield.
Bradley returned to the bench to play the final 10 minutes in Liverpool’s 3-2 victory at Newcastle United, but was an unused substitute in the 1-0 victory over Arsenal, as Dominik Szoboszlai thrived out of position to score the winner.
The right-back is away on international duty with Northern Ireland, and after a 3-1 victory over Luxembourg, they travelled to Koln to face Germany.
Conor Bradley given plaudits for display against Germany
Despite a brave performance, the Northern Irish were cruelly defeated 3-1 by the much stronger Germans on Sunday.
Isaac Price had given Michael O’Neill’s men belief of getting a result when he equalised in the first half, but all hope was quashed when Florian Wirtz scored a sublime free-kick.
Bradley had a great game defensively, winning 11 duels, more than any other player, as well as winning seven tackles.
The Northern Irish media have praised the young right-back for his part in a disciplined defensive performance.
Here’s how the Northern Irish media reacted to Conor Bradley’s performance:
- “Like his comrades, he was expected to perform a deeper role against better opponents. Needed treatment for facial injury. Was part of disciplined defence in first half, made some big tackles and eventually booked for challenge on Gross.” – 8/10 – Belfast Telegraph
- “Another energetic display from the Liverpool man.” – 7/10 – Belfast Live
Meanwhile, a fan vote on BBC Sport‘s website saw Bradley rated Northern Ireland’s best performer on the night.
The defeat leaves Northern Ireland level on points with Germany, but they can ill-afford anymore slip-ups if they want to reach next summer’s World Cup.
Conor Bradley needs to keep form up to get back into Liverpool team
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s acrimonious departure from Anfield made many fans believe that Bradley was destined to usurp the starting right-back role for good.
However, the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong and the shock rise of Szoboszlai at full-back has meant Bradley is yet to have his go in the side this season
| Conor Bradley vs Germany | Total |
| Tackles | 7 |
| Recoveries | 4 |
| Clearances | 2 |
With the Hungarian in the form he is in, it’s going to take some effort for the 22-year-old to return to the starting 11, but keeping up this form will be a great start.
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