Conor Bradley handed ultimate honor to ease Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold worries

Conor Bradley spoke of – and he’s aiming to retain the armband again this week.

The right-back was made captain for the first time by Northern Ireland for the goalless draw against Belarus on Saturday. The 21-year-old played the full 90 minutes in Hungary, with the game played behind closed doors due to UEFA’s restrictions on Belarus.

It proved to be a frustrating night for Northern Ireland as they missed chances to claim a victory that would have taken them to the top of their Nations League group. Nevertheless, it was a memorable night for as he donned the captain’s armband for the first time, and he’s hoping to do the same against Bulgaria on Tuesday – this time in front of supporters.

"I'm just extremely proud,” Bradley told . “It was pretty surreal walking out with the boys behind me and having the armband was pretty special.

“I'm just really proud. I think it will be a bit nicer if fans are there, but we'll leave that down to Michael to see who he thinks should be the captain on Tuesday."

Bradley’s latest honor comes as a reward for what has been a breakthrough 12 months for the young full-back. He has now become a vital part of Liverpool’s senior team as he provides backup to , having filled in for the Reds’ vice-captain on numerous occasions last season to great acclaim.

Bradley has largely had to make do with a support role so far this campaign, having made just the one start for Liverpool in the Carabao Cup, but will no doubt be pleased to see him continue his international journey – .

The 26-year-old is still , with his current deal expiring at the end of the season. Not only that, but with January fast approaching, he will soon be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club, and , the clock is ticking for Liverpool.

Losing one of their own would be a major blow for the Reds, particularly as he enters his peak years having already been identified as successor as captain. In Bradley though, Liverpool at least knows they have a very able deputy to call upon should the worst happen.

Bradley has shown he is more than capable of stepping up for his club, and in captaining his country for the first time, he has shown the maturity that would be required to fill Alexander-Arnold’s boots.