Liverpool warned injuries will prevent Trent Alexander-Arnold heir from fulfilling potential - but USMNT star Antonee Robinson likely on Reds' radar despite fitness concerns

Liverpool’s preparations for life after Alexander-Arnold are underway, but questions remain over whether 21-year-old Bradley is ready to fill the significant void left by the departing right-back. While Bradley has stepped in admirably on occasion - most recently playing the final 30 minutes in the 3-1 defeat to Chelsea - the step up to being a weekly starter is a considerable one.

Despite showing flashes of potential since making his debut in 2021, Bradley’s progress has often been disrupted by injuries. Out of his 51 senior appearances, only 14 have come as Premier League starts. A hamstring problem sustained against Real Madrid last December resurfaced earlier this year, and a minor training ground knock also sidelined him from Liverpool’s recent clash with Tottenham.

Fitness issues remain a significant obstacle in Bradley’s development. Though he returned to action against Chelsea, his limited availability raises concerns about how dependable he can be over a demanding season, especially if tasked with filling one of the most crucial roles in Liverpool’s system.

Ben Dinnery, a respected football injury analyst, has advised caution over pushing Bradley into Alexander-Arnold’s shoes prematurely. Speaking to Casino Apps, he said: "I think putting Conor Bradley straight in to replace Trent Alexander Arnold at right-back would be a big decision from Arne Slot. It’s a lot to ask to rely on the young lad to deliver performances week-in, week-out. I think Slot is smarter than that, though, you have a duty of care as a manager to look after the players in the here and now, but also to maintain that upwards trajectory in their long-term careers."

Dinnery acknowledged Bradley’s talent but urged Liverpool to manage his minutes and avoid overburdening him. "From what we’ve seen from Bradley, he’s a player with lots of potential and can deliver at the highest level, but you need to temper those expectations given his young age," he said. "We’ve already heard about the latest hamstring setback he’s had, and they’ve got to be acutely aware of that and understand that there are psychological demands as well as physical, especially when playing at a stadium like Anfield in front of the Kop. Liverpool play on the biggest stage in the world in the Champions League, too, against some of Europe’s greatest opponents. If Trent were to leave, I’m sure Slot has identified targets for that position."

Liverpool are also believed to be exploring other options to strengthen the left side of their defence. One name that has emerged is Fulham full-back Antonee Robinson. Although Robinson has also struggled with minor injuries recently, Dinnery believes his situation is far less concerning.

He said: "Liverpool have been linked with Antonee Robinson, who’s been affected with this injury for the last month or so. That said, if you ask any Premier League player at this stage of the season how they’re feeling, none of them are going to say 100%! When the games are coming thick and fast, it’s difficult to get that rest from those knocks and niggles.

"This is why I don’t think it’d be an issue for Liverpool looking at him, it’s just indicative of how players are towards the latter stages of the season. These players do go through rigorous pre-screening to identify any underlying problems, but these medicals aren’t straight yeses or no’s."

Alexander-Arnold’s departure marks the end of an era at Anfield. Since emerging from the academy as a teenager, he has redefined the right-back role with his attacking flair, pinpoint deliveries, and match-winning moments. Over nine seasons, he has lifted eight trophies, including the recently clinched Premier League title, cementing his status as one of Liverpool’s modern greats. Replacing a player of his calibre is no easy task and Bradley has big boots to fill.