Liverpool's Premier League clash with Arsenal ended in a goalless draw but was overshadowed by a serious injury to defender Conor Bradley and a subsequent furious on-pitch row.
Bradley Stretchered Off in Major Injury Blow
Conor Bradley was stretchered from the pitch in the latter stages of the match at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night, with immediate fears centring on a significant knee problem. The Liverpool full-back was seen leaving the stadium on crutches and wearing a protective knee brace, clearly in considerable discomfort and assisted by club staff.
Speaking after the final whistle, Liverpool manager Arne Slot gave a concerning update, admitting he was "hoping for the best, but fearing for the worst" regarding the extent of Bradley's injury. The incident adds to a growing list of fitness concerns for Slot's squad at a crucial point in the season.
Martinelli Incident Ignites Post-Match Fury
The injury was immediately followed by a flashpoint that ignited tempers. With Bradley lying stricken on the turf, Arsenal substitute Gabriel Martinelli attempted to move the player and threw the ball at him, prompting an angry reaction from Liverpool's players.
The behaviour drew sharp criticism from Sky Sports pundits and former Manchester United captains Roy Keane and Gary Neville. Neville branded Martinelli an "idiot" during his live commentary, stating he was "fuming" and surprised a Liverpool player did not retaliate. Keane later called the actions a "disgrace," referencing a similar incident from his own playing career.
Managers Clash in Defence of Their Players
The managers offered starkly different perspectives in their post-match interviews. Liverpool's Arne Slot expressed his clear displeasure, saying, "I didn't like to see one of my players moved if they have such a big injury." He emphasised that when a Liverpool player is on the ground, it is a clear sign of a genuine problem.
In contrast, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta vehemently defended his Brazilian winger. Arteta insisted there was "zero intention" from Martinelli to cause harm, attributing the incident to a potential lack of awareness of Bradley's condition. He added his hopes that the Liverpool defender's injury was not serious.
The result leaves significant questions for both clubs. For Liverpool, the potential long-term loss of Conor Bradley is a major defensive setback. For Arsenal, the missed opportunity to gain ground at the top of the table was compounded by the unsavoury controversy surrounding one of their key attackers.
