Conor Bradley. Photo: Collected

LIVERPOOL, Jan 11, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley is 
set to undergo surgery on a serious knee injury which will rule him out for 
the rest of the season.

The Northern Ireland international suffered the injury in the closing stages 
of Thursday's 0-0 draw at Arsenal.

Gunners' forward Gabriel Martinelli apologised after the match for attempting 
to push Bradley off the field in the mistaken belief he was time-wasting.

"Liverpool FC can confirm Conor Bradley has sustained a significant knee 
injury," the English champions said in a statement.

"Bradley will undergo surgery in the coming days and then begin a period of 
rehabilitation."

The BBC reported that the injury is not an anterior cruciate ligament tear 
but does involve damage to the bone and ligament.

Bradley is also a major doubt for the World Cup should Northern Ireland 
navigate two play-off matches in March, starting with a trip to Italy.

His absence is a major blow to both club and country.

The 22-year-old was seen as the natural heir to Trent Alexander-Arnold at 
Anfield when he departed for Real Madrid.

But injuries have limited Bradley's impact this season with Arne Slot often 
having to turn to midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai to deputise at right-back.

Liverpool are still involved in three competitions and begin their FA Cup 
campaign at home to Barnsley on Monday.

Slot's side sit fourth in the Premier League and are also on course to 
qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.