"Comeback starts now" – Conor Bradley undergoes successful knee surgery

Liverpool defender Conor Bradley has successfully undergone surgery for the significant knee injury he sustained during the closing stages of the Reds' goalless Premier League draw at Arsenal last Thursday, January 8, 2026.[5][2][3]

The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international was stretchered off after suffering bone and ligament damage in his knee—confirmed not to be an ACL injury—leaving Liverpool without a natural right-back for the remainder of the season.[2][3][4] Bradley had already missed games earlier this term due to a hamstring issue but had made 21 appearances, showcasing his growing importance under head coach Arne Slot.[2][4]

Following the procedure, Bradley shared an uplifting update on Instagram: A big blow but surgery is done so the comeback starts now. It won’t be for a little while but I already can’t wait to get back playing for Liverpool and Northern Ireland. Thanks for all the support. He will now begin rehabilitation at Liverpool's AXA Training Centre, though no specific timeframe has been set for his return.[4][3][5]

The injury poses a "big blow" for Slot, who has reluctantly deployed midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones at right-back this season. Backup options include Jeremie Frimpong, plagued by his own injury woes since joining from Bayer Leverkusen, and Joe Gomez, recently back from a hamstring problem—neither ideal long-term solutions.[1][2]

Bradley will miss Northern Ireland's World Cup play-off against Italy in March, but faces a tense race to be fit for the summer tournament should Michael O'Neill's side qualify.[2][4] The incident drew controversy when Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli pushed the prone defender and threw a ball at him, earning a booking amid widespread criticism and an apology from the forward.[2][4]

Despite the setback, Bradley's positive mindset signals determination for a full recovery, with fans and teammates rallying in support.

(Word count: 298)