Liverpool, Jan 14 (NationPress) Liverpool defender Conor Bradley has pledged to return even stronger after undergoing successful surgery for a serious knee injury that has sidelined him for the rest of the season. The 22-year-old international from Northern Ireland called this setback a significant challenge but stated his determination is now firmly set on recovery and his eventual comeback.

The injury occurred during Liverpool’s goalless draw against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last week. The young right-back sustained the injury while making a late clearance, leading to him being carried off on a stretcher and exiting the stadium with crutches. Following thorough medical evaluations, damage to his knee's bone and ligament was confirmed, although the injury did not involve the anterior cruciate ligament.

Liverpool subsequently announced that Bradley would need surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period, with no specific timeline for his return. The club referred to the injury as significant, acknowledging that the defender will miss the remainder of the domestic season.

“Liverpool FC can confirm that Conor Bradley has sustained a significant knee injury. The right-back will undergo surgery and then enter a rehabilitation phase at the AXA Training Centre. No timeframe is being set for his return at this moment,” stated the club in an official announcement.

After his surgery earlier this week, Bradley reached out to fans for the first time since his injury via social media, thanking everyone for their supportive messages while expressing his commitment to return.

“It’s a big setback, but the surgery is completed, so my comeback journey begins now. It will take some time, but I am already eager to return to action for Liverpool and Northern Ireland. Thank you all for the support,” Bradley shared.

Liverpool's head coach, Arne Slot, described the injury as an “enormous blow” for both Bradley and the club, particularly given the defender’s outstanding performances this season. He had become a dependable presence in the defense, showcasing impressive work ethic and defensive skills.

The incident also led to a poignant moment during the match, as Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli initially reacted angrily, thinking Bradley was wasting time. Once the severity of the injury was apparent, Martinelli publicly apologized and reached out personally to express his regrets to Bradley.

In the absence of Bradley, Liverpool is anticipated to depend on summer acquisition Jeremie Frimpong, with Joe Gomez and academy product Calvin Ramsay offering additional support at right-back as the club continues its Premier League journey.