According to the Liverpool Echo, Northern Ireland will have to continue without Bradley, who is not expected to return before next year.

Bradley has been sidelined since suffering a serious knee injury against Arsenal in January, requiring surgery. The operation was performed to repair severe damage to bone and ligaments.

Over the summer, Bradley was photographed undertaking individual rehabilitation training at the AXA Training Centre and was among injured players who travelled with the squad to the United States for the pre-season tour. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has stated that Bradley is still far from returning to full training with the team.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has prepared for the possibility that Bradley will not be available for the end-of-month international break and Northern Ireland's matches in November.

O'Neill said: "Conor's situation is as I expected. I knew from the start that the recovery time for this injury would be longer than some people thought.

"He is making good progress with his recovery. Injuries like this need to be managed very, very carefully. He has recently also become a father, so he has other things to worry about—congratulations to him.

"But as soon as Conor is ready and fully recovered, he will return to us and we will be delighted to welcome him back."

When asked whether Bradley might not play for Northern Ireland again this year, O'Neill added: "I think I can accept that.

"If we could see him before Christmas, it would be a real surprise; otherwise, we will look forward to the international matches in March."

Tradotto dall'IA.

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