Conor Bradley Praises ‘Unbelievable’ Liverpool Star Ahead of International Clash | OneFootball

Conor Bradley Relishes Chance to Face Liverpool Teammate Florian Wirtz on International Duty

Liverpool have gone into the international break with a perfect record in the Premier League, three wins from three and a sense that Arne Slot’s new-look side is already bedding in. Among the summer arrivals, Florian Wirtz stands out. Signed from Bayer Leverkusen for a record fee, the German midfielder has yet to fully ignite at Anfield but his reputation and potential make it a question of when, rather than if, he makes his mark.

Bradley’s Perspective on Wirtz

For Conor Bradley, the international schedule brings a curious twist. Northern Ireland are set to meet Germany this weekend, meaning the young right-back will be directly up against his new Liverpool teammate. Speaking to BBC Sport Northern Ireland after his side’s 3-1 World Cup qualifying win over Luxembourg, Bradley revealed there has already been some light-hearted banter.

“A few jokes before we came away, but no WhatsApps yet,” Bradley said with a grin. “Maybe I’ll have to get into him tomorrow and tell him to take it easy on us.

“But no, obviously Florian is an unbelievable player, I’ve seen that in the few weeks we’ve had with him and in pre-season too. He’s some player and I’ll have to keep him quiet on Sunday night.”

The respect between the two is evident, yet there is also a clear determination from Bradley to show he can hold his own against one of Europe’s brightest attacking midfielders.

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Wirtz Finding his Rhythm at Liverpool

Wirtz has been under the spotlight since his arrival. At just 22, he has already demonstrated with Bayer Leverkusen and Germany that he possesses creativity, composure and vision beyond his years. His Liverpool debut showed glimpses of that promise, though he has been tasked with adapting to Slot’s fluid system and the pace of the Premier League.

His international form has not been perfect either, with Germany criticised following a 2-0 defeat to Slovakia in the Nations League. Yet such bumps are hardly unusual in a player’s progression and Wirtz remains central to both club and country’s plans.

Bradley’s Role in Slot’s Squad

Bradley’s involvement comes at a timely moment for Liverpool. Injury had curtailed his progress in recent months, but completing 77 minutes for Northern Ireland will reassure Slot. With Jeremie Frimpong also expected back after the break, Liverpool’s right-back options look considerably stronger ahead of the Burnley fixture on 14 September.

Bradley brings tenacity, energy and a refusal to accept defeat in one-on-one battles. His development has been carefully managed and his rise through the Liverpool ranks is a testament to both his character and ability. Facing Wirtz in Cologne will test every facet of his game, particularly if Julian Nagelsmann opts to use the German on the left once more.

Spotlight on Cologne Clash

For Liverpool supporters, the prospect of Bradley and Wirtz facing off on international duty offers a fascinating subplot. Two players at different stages of their careers, yet both crucial to Slot’s ambitions of building on last season’s Premier League title.

The outcome in Cologne may not define their seasons, but it will provide a glimpse of the qualities that persuaded Liverpool to invest so heavily in Wirtz and to place such trust in Bradley. Above all, it gives fans another reason to keep a close eye on international football before domestic matters resume.