Slot announces Gomez injury blow alongside progress report on Bradley
Liverpool will receive a major boost this weekend as Conor Bradley prepares to rejoin the squad for our Premier League trip to Leeds United.
The Northern Ireland defender, who has been absent for the last four matches, has returned to full training and is ready for selection after Arne Slot confirmed his availability in his pre-match press conference.
Bradley and squad fitness update
“Conor Bradley trained this week, so as long as he completes today’s session, he’ll be available for the squad tomorrow,” Slot said via Liverpool FC’s official YouTube channel.
His comeback arrives at an important moment, especially after recent injuries have unsettled the squad’s rhythm — including Joe Gomez, who suffered a knock in the West Ham match.
Slot offered reassurance on Gomez’s condition: “Joe picked up a knock against West Ham but still managed to start. He couldn’t finish the full 90 minutes, but I expect him to train again today.”
Bradley’s return is crucial as we work to rebuild momentum following a tense finish against Sunderland at Anfield — a match that showed how vulnerable we can become when defensive depth is stretched, even though Florian Wirtz’s late effort salvaged a point.
Having Bradley available again strengthens our right side and gives Slot more tactical freedom heading into Saturday’s clash at Elland Road.
Importance of returning players for Liverpool
The Northern Ireland youngster has already shown he can perform under pressure.
As Ian Wright highlighted after Bradley’s impressive display versus Real Madrid, his battles with elite wingers have boosted both his confidence and Liverpool’s defensive stability.
Joe Gomez is also edging back toward peak form, with Virgil van Dijk recently praising his performance after the West Ham game.
With both defenders nearing full fitness, Liverpool can approach the Leeds meeting with renewed strength and options. Slot’s careful handling of injuries and rotation will be vital as we juggle Premier League demands alongside Champions League responsibilities.
Bradley’s return provides not only added defensive security but also greater balance and consistency as we aim to climb the Premier League table.
