Northern Ireland’s Manager Hopes for Conor Bradley’s Presence in Upcoming Play-Off

O’Neill Looks Ahead to World Cup Play-Offs

Northern Ireland’s head coach, Michael O’Neill, expressed that it “would certainly be nice” for the sidelined Conor Bradley to still join the squad for their crucial 2026 World Cup play-off against Italy in March.

The Matchup Against Italy

O’Neill’s team is set to face the four-time World Cup champions in the semi-final on March 26. A victory against Gennaro Gattuso’s squad in Bergamo would see them advancing to compete against either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a coveted spot in the summer tournament.

Bradley’s Injury and Recovery

Unfortunately, Bradley will not be available for this match. The Liverpool right-back is slated to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery due to an injury he incurred during Liverpool’s recent 0-0 draw with Arsenal.

Support from the Former International

Stephen Craigan, a former Northern Ireland player, suggested that Bradley should still make the trip to Italy to serve as a source of inspiration for the team. O’Neill hopes this can materialize, pending approval from Bradley’s club.

“Since the training headquarters is in Liverpool, it would be convenient for Conor to visit us,” he stated in an interview with BBC Sport NI.

O’Neill added, “I’ve been in contact with him, and it’s something we can consider as the date approaches, depending on what his club thinks is appropriate. He will be two or three months into his recovery, so we’ll take it as it goes, but it would definitely be great to have him around if that’s feasible.”