Liverpool granted Ibrahima Konate fitness boost as Conor Bradley recovery outlined

Konate and Bradley both picked up injuries in Wednesday’s 2-0 triumph over Real Madrid, only a few days ahead of Sunday’s encounter with Manchester City at Anfield.

A medical specialist suggests the issue Ibrahima Konate encountered against Real Madrid might not be as severe as initially feared, despite Arne Slot’s apprehension. Conor Bradley may be a notable absentee for Liverpool’s showdown with Manchester City on Sunday due to his hamstring trouble, however.

Bradley’s remarkable effort in Wednesday’s 2-0 victory was cut short because of a hamstring issue sustained three minutes from the conclusion. Konate was later compelled to hobble towards the dressing rooms at full-time following what seems to be a blow to the knee after colliding with Endrick.

Discussing the duo in Thursday’s media briefing, manager Slot stated: “Conor, we needed to substitute him, and Ibou didn’t leave the field as he ought to after the excellent performance he gave. Not an encouraging sign. They are still being evaluated; I can’t confirm where they’ll stand this weekend or beyond.”

Bradley – who secured his first assist of the season for Alexis Mac Allister’s opener – was observed strolling around the pitch following the match. Nevertheless, in both his and Konate’s situations, injury analyst Ben Dinnery advises that little should be inferred from their post-match behavior.

“It’s very early stages, but my understanding with Bradley is there are indications of a hamstring concern, some tightness present,” Dinnery, of Premier Injuries, told the ECHO. “The expectation, in an ideal scenario, is that it’s merely that – a slight discomfort with no significant damage.

“Post-match evaluation is challenging, especially after a Champions League clash when everyone’s energy and adrenaline are elevated. You’ll need to wait until the following day for a proper assessment and, as a precaution, proceed with a scan.

“With hamstring complications, you generally prepare for the worst. If the results indicate otherwise, it’s a significant relief,” Dinnery explained.

Dinnery highlighted the closeness of Sunday’s crucial fixture against Manchester City, only three days away, as a consideration for Liverpool’s medical staff. “The worry would be that if you participate in the game with lingering tightness, there’s a chance of worsening the condition,” he stated.

“And then you’re potentially looking at several weeks out of action as you enter a hectic festive schedule. So, in my view, it’s a risk Arne Slot is unlikely to entertain.”

Regarding Konate, Dinnery believes his contact injury could be a condition that improves gradually, despite initial appearances. However, he cautioned that some severe instances of this type of problem can unexpectedly escalate.

He clarified: “For Ibrahima Konate, it seems to have been a strike to the knee – the natural assumption would be that it’s less serious in terms of injury mechanics. Yes, in the moment, it can appear quite painful.

“But if it’s a contact injury, you can feel slightly more assured and hopeful that, with some care, [he will recover]. That’s not to say, though, that over the next 24 to 48 hours, the issue might not intensify and become a bigger challenge.

“However, Conor Bradley remains my major concern, and I’d certainly place Konate as having a better chance of being available. But I stand by my earlier comments concerning Conor Bradley.”