Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has ruled out Conor Bradley from playing against Manchester City and Newcastle after the fullback picked up an injury during the 2-2 draw versus Aston Villa.

The 21-year-old came on for Trent Alexander-Arnold on the hour mark but he lasted just 23 minutes before he was forced off the pitch, having pulled up after trying to close down a cross. Asked for an update on Bradley during the post-match conference on Wednesday evening, Slot said:

“It is difficult but he felt a bit when he made a sprint. He tried to continue but had to go out. All the time with injuries, I always say if a player wants to go out himself, that’s not a promising sign.”

“It will probably lead to the fact he is probably 99.9 per cent not available for City and I don’t expect him against Newcastle as well. Then we have to see if it’s one or two weeks or if it’s going to be even longer.”

Bradley could be out until the next international break

Based on Slot’s remarks, there is a chance that the fullback won’t play against Southampton or in the Carabao Cup final either.

The club’s medical team will have to be careful with Bradley’s fitness. He has already suffered one muscular injury this season, having been sidelined with a hamstring problem for most of December.

Liverpool will have to rely on Trent

Bradley’s availability was key to managing the minutes of the Reds’ vice-captain. Some fans criticised Slot for substituting Alexander-Arnold after 60 minutes at Villa Park but he has only recently returned to fitness himself, having missed two cup ties earlier this month.

With the lack of other options, though, Alexander-Arnold may have to play more than advised, risking another injury setback. If he does suffer any fitness problems, it would be a big blow for the Reds in the title race, with Arsenal nipping at their heels.