Liverpool Make Calvin Ramsay Decision After Conor Bradley Injury

Liverpool FC faces a defensive crisis following Conor Bradley's devastating knee injury sustained in a 0-0 Premier League draw against Arsenal. The 22-year-old right-back, who had emerged as the club's first-choice in the position since Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure, collapsed while attempting a clearance and was stretchered off. Diagnosed with significant bone and ligament damage—but not an ACL tear—Bradley will undergo surgery soon and miss the rest of the domestic season[1][2].

Manager Arne Slot expressed heartbreak over the blow, noting Bradley's recent progress after hamstring issues. "In a season before it started, where he thought: ‘This has to be my season’... to maybe play six, seven or eight games is a big blow for him," Slot said. The injury also jeopardizes Bradley's participation in Northern Ireland’s World Cup play-offs, including the semi-final in Italy on March 26[1].

The incident sparked controversy when Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli shoved the prone defender, leading to an on-field brawl. Martinelli later apologized[2]. Liverpool's defense is now critically thin, with prior serious injuries to Giovanni Leoni (ACL) and Alexander Isak (broken leg). Jeremie Frimpong, signed as Alexander-Arnold's replacement, remains the primary right-back option, often deployed further forward[2].

In response, Liverpool has scrapped plans to loan out Calvin Ramsay. The 22-year-old, who had attracted Scottish club interest for a January move, has returned to the first-team squad after building fitness with the U21s, where he was a regular starter and occasional captain. According to The Athletic's James Pearce, Ramsay is now likely to stay and provide cover, having recently featured on the senior bench[1]. Meanwhile, Amara Nallo is set to depart on loan after defender Mor Talla Ndiaye's arrival[1].

This injury underscores Liverpool's squad depth concerns under Slot, though reports suggest a quiet January transfer window despite the crisis[3]. Ramsay's retention offers immediate relief at right-back.

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