Gary Neville calls for Liverpool to confront Martinelli following disgraceful incident

Liverpool and Arsenal were held to a 0–0 draw in the Premier League on Tuesday night, with each side largely controlling one half of the contest, making the stalemate a fair outcome overall.

However, the high-profile encounter was overshadowed by a controversial moment involving Gabriel Martinelli and Conor Bradley. The Liverpool defender suffered a serious knee injury during the match, and footage showed the Arsenal winger throwing the ball at Bradley and attempting to pull him off the pitch as he lay in visible pain.

Gary Neville criticises Martinelli

The incident sparked widespread backlash from supporters and pundits alike. Former Premier League defender Gary Neville was particularly scathing, suggesting Liverpool’s players should have confronted Martinelli, even if it meant risking a red card.

Neville said:
“Conor Bradley has been stretchered off, and it’s heartbreaking because he’s had injury problems before. I’m absolutely furious with Gabriel Martinelli. I don’t understand how the Liverpool players didn’t go over and hit him, even if it meant taking a red card. It was disgraceful.”

Martinelli later apologised directly to Bradley and also issued a public apology on social media following the match.

Bradley injury a major concern for Liverpool

Bradley’s injury represents a significant setback for Liverpool, who are already thin in the right-back position. An extended absence for the academy graduate could prove hugely damaging to their campaign.

With the January transfer window now open, Liverpool may be forced to explore the market for reinforcements. Jeremie Frimpong has endured fitness issues since arriving at the club, and relying on the Dutch international to play every match in the coming weeks may not be realistic.