Micah Richards has been a pundit on almost every football station in the world at this point and has never shied away from giving his verdict on current players.
One of the main topics of conversation that has emerged from Anfield over the last couple of months is whether Conor Bradley has enough quality to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The Melwood native has chosen to allow his contract at Liverpool to expire, and Alexander-Arnold will now join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.
This has then sparked rumours about the Reds’ potential moves in the transfer market, with players such as Jeremie Frimpong linked with Liverpool.
However, as the summer transfer window is edging closer, some have pondered whether Bradley has what it takes to fill the void left by his teammate and become Liverpool’s starting right-back.
On the face of things, a move for Frimpong makes plenty of sense, especially with the level of quality he’s shown when used this term.
Micah Richards casts doubt on Conor Bradley’s mindset
Injuries have hindered the progression of Bradley massively at Liverpool this term, with Richards questioning whether the defender has the correct mindset to be a starter.
Since his introduction to the squad by Jurgen Klopp, he’s always been Alexander-Arnold’s understudy, which has left Richards wondering whether he’ll be able to consistently perform at a high level.
“I actually think he’s [Bradley] very good guys,” he told the Rest Is Football podcast.
“I think he’s good going forward, he’s intelligent with his runs, and he can do the one-on-one defending as well.
“The only question mark would be can he do it on a consistent basis, the mindset for a substitute is different to a starter, I wouldn’t say it’s easier to do but it’s just a different mindset in the way you approach it.”
Liverpool must bring in another right-back to support Conor Bradley
There’s no denying that Bradley has plenty of talent and potential to offer Arne Slot next term.
He’s been used as the back-up to one of the most creative defenders in the Premier League for some time now and will have no doubt picked up some tips and tricks along the way.
However, as Richards mentioned, he hasn’t been a regular starter for the Reds and the fact that his injury record has been patchy at best, it would be unwise for Slot not to try to sign a new right-back.
Of course, both Joe Gomez and Jarrell Quansah can cover at full-back if needed, but both are far better suited to being centre-backs.
Only time will tell what the future holds, but with the recent rumours that have arisen around Frimpong’s potential transfer to Liverpool, it feels like a decision has already been made.
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