This time a year ago, Conor Bradley was coming towards the end of his League One loan spell at Bolton Wanderers. Now he’s proving his worth for Liverpool and becoming a key man for Northern Ireland.
Bradley’s rise in 2024 has been remarkable.
The right back impressed in League One last season and helped Bolton qualify for the League One play-offs.
Some wondered if Bradley needed a season on loan in the Championship to enhance his development.
Liverpool instead chose to keep Bradley at Anfield and that is what we call a good decision.
Bradley has stepped up in the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, producing exceptional displays as Liverpool’s right back.
Bradley is showing that he could be Liverpool’s long-term right back if Alexander-Arnold is moved into midfield in the future – and he is also shining for Northern Ireland.
Liverpool’s Conor Bradley praised in Northern Ireland
The 20-year-old joined Liverpool from Dungannon Swifts in his native Northern Ireland back in 2019, making his international debut two years later.
Bradley should now be a key part of the Northern Ireland side for years to come and he has already racked up 14 caps for his country.
Friday’s clash with Romania saw Bradley line up as a right wing back as Northern Ireland claimed a 1-1 draw.
Claiming a draw against a Euro 2024 side is a real positive for Northern Ireland and Bradley played a key role.
Belfast Live gave Bradley a 9 out of 10 rating, naming him as the Man of the Match whilst praising his relentless work rate up the right flank.
“Covered every blade of grass and was standout player on the pitch,” they wrote.
The Belfast Telegraph went with an 8 out of 10, hailing Bradley as a ‘magical’ player who marries ability with the right mentality.
“Welcome return for the 20-year-old Liverpool hero, his burst of pace lead to Reid’s goal and real threat going forward. Magical and mature player with the right attitude and ability.”
It’s clear that Bradley is taking his Liverpool form into his Northern Ireland commitments and is stepping forward as their top talent for the future.
This has been an incredible start to 2024 for Bradley and he is showing absolutely no signs of slowing down, so the excitement from Liverpool and Northern Ireland fans is completely justified.