Conor Bradley and Andy Robertson are back – and Liverpool look better for it
The return of Arne Slot’s two most defensively reliable full-backs has sparked a significant improvement in Liverpool’s overall form.
At the start of the season in August, Conor Bradley and Andy Robertson were sidelined, watching from the stands. Their places on the field were taken by new signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, both part of the Premier League champions’ record-breaking £450 million ($587m) summer spending spree.
Bradley was still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in pre-season, while 31-year-old Robertson found himself on the bench as head coach Arne Slot aimed to build for the future. Both players have faced long periods of frustration as they worked their way back to full fitness and contention.
Last weekend’s Premier League victory over Aston Villa marked the first time the pair had started together since May’s final match of the previous campaign. They were retained for Tuesday’s Champions League win against Real Madrid, where they justified Slot’s trust in them with composed and disciplined performances that contained the Spanish league leaders’ powerful attack.
“Both have endured plenty of frustration in their respective battles to get back to where they wanted to be.”
Their comeback has restored balance and authority to Liverpool’s defense, reminding supporters why the duo has long been central to the club’s success.
Author’s Summary
Bradley and Robertson’s return has revitalized Liverpool’s defense, restoring the team’s confidence and stability under Arne Slot’s direction.