ReactionConor Bradley on Sparta win: 'It was a professional performance'
Conor Bradley praised a ‘professional performance’ from Liverpool against Sparta Prague as they secured passage into the Europa League quarter-finals.
The Reds earned a 6-1 victory over the Czech champions on Thursday night in the second leg of the last-16 tie at Anfield, leaving the aggregate scoreline at 11-2, to book a spot in the last eight of the competition in impressive fashion.
Four goals inside the opening 14 minutes put Liverpool in firm control, with Darwin Nunez, Bobby Clark, Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo all netting in quick succession.
Further goals in the second period from Dominik Szoboszlai and a second from Gakpo completed an emphatic evening, which followed an earlier effort from Veljko Birmancevic for the visitors.
Read Bradley’s post-match reaction with TNT Sports below…
On the Anfield victory…
A very good night. Obviously we started the game very well to get the four goals… it was a really professional performance.
On navigating a ‘tricky’ few months so well…
Whenever we found out the news [that Jürgen Klopp was leaving] it was hard to take. He’s been the only manager I’ve known at this club, so for him to be leaving is sad, but now we just want to win every trophy we can for him and give him the best send-off we can.
On whether Liverpool hold aims of a quadruple this season…
We just focus on the next game. We just want to keep winning and keep playing well and keep the performances going.
On Clark’s first Liverpool goal…
I know for me it was a special feeling. I’m sure it’s the same for him. It was a great finish and I thought Bobby played brilliantly. His pressing from the front was brilliant and I’m buzzing for him.
On whether having so many Academy teammates in the senior team helps…
I’d say it makes it an easier transition coming into the first team. Obviously there are so many other young players like Harvey [Elliott], Jarell [Quansah], Bobby and James McConnell. It definitely does help and helps ease you into the team. It’s class to play with those players. I’ve been the whole way through the Academy so to be doing it now at Anfield with them is just brilliant.
On what advice he has given to other young players…
I just try to tell them to play their own game. I’ve seen them in training every day and I know how good they are, so I just try to tell them to play their own game and if they make a mistake to just get on the ball again and try to make things happen. It’s credit to the boys they keep doing that and keep putting in good performances.
On the development in his own game…
Some games I’m asked to do different stuff. Tonight I was asked to be more inside and play in the double pivot. I just enjoy learning and enjoy the experience. I just want to keep making myself better. It’s been really good and hopefully it continues.