Liverpool defender Conor Bradley faces an extended period on the sidelines after sustaining a serious knee injury. The 22-year-old underwent surgery and will miss Northern Ireland's 2026 World Cup play-off semi-final against Italy in March.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill described Bradley's absence as a "big blow" and a "hammer blow" for the squad. Bradley picked up the injury during a Premier League match for Liverpool against Arsenal and is ruled out for the remainder of the club season.
The play-off semi-final against Italy is scheduled for March 26. Should Northern Ireland progress, they would face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a place in the summer finals. O'Neill hopes Bradley can still be part of the squad's camp in Italy, subject to Liverpool's approval.
