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Former Liverpool midfielder Gary McAllister has credited Conor Bradley for his physical transformation over the summer. The 21-year-old will be aiming to continue his impressive ascension this season under new Reds manager Arne Slot.
Bradley joined the Reds' youth academy in 2019, making his senior debut during the 2021-22 season. After a successful season-long loan at Bolton Wanderers in 2022, he returned to Liverpool the following campaign and was able to break into the starting XI due to Trent Alexander-Arnold's injury woes.
The Northern Ireland international has worked on himself physically over the summer to prepare for the 2024-25 campaign - something McAllister noticed as he told Sky Sports (via HITC):
“I think Conor Bradley last season was immense, but he’s still very very young. His body shape has changed quite a bit, he’s grown into his body. So he’s exciting, I think he’s looking very sharp and I’m excited to see him.”
Under Jurgen Klopp's tutelage, Conor Bradley made 23 appearances across competitions, scoring one goal and providing six assists. While Bradley is expected to play second-fiddle to Alexander-Arnold, he has proved himself more than capable of playing at the highest level, in terms of defense and going forward.
"It’s just learning new ways" - Liverpool defender Conor Bradley gives his verdict on Arne Slot's tactics
Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley has offered an honest verdict on Arne Slot's tactics, claiming that while the changes have been difficult, he has enjoyed the process.
Slot and Co. are currently in the middle of their pre-season training camp in Philadelphia. The Dutchman will be seeking to implement his philosophy in the Reds' style of play after replacing Jurgen Klopp as head coach following the latter's successful eight-year stint at Anfield.
Bradley offered a small insight into Slot's tactics, saying (via One Football):
“It’s been difficult [in] the first few weeks – obviously it’s new ideas, new [head coach] – but I’ve also really enjoyed it. It’s just learning new ways and I feel like it’s improved me as a player as well.”
He added:
“Just probably a bit more structure in the build-up phase. Obviously out of the ball it’s quite similar – we still want to press when we lose the ball, we still want it back as quick as we can.”
Slot's style of play focuses on possession-based football while maintaining high press and intensity. He recently started his Liverpool tenure with a win, defeating Real Betis 1-0 in a pre-season friendly on Friday, July 26.
