Liverpool FC News: Conor Bradley's HUGE praise for Xabi Alonso

Liverpool right back Conor Bradley may have just ingratiated himself with the Reds' next manager, describing Xabi Alonso as 'unbelievable'.

Alonso, currently the manager of Bayer Leverkusen, is the frontrunner to take over from Jurgen Klopp when the German steps down as Liverpool boss this summer.

The 42-year-old's side are still unbeaten in all competitions this season and are on track for the first Bundesliga title in their 119-year history.

In addition to chasing league glory, Alonso's Leverkusen remain in the German Cup and Europa League — and could even meet Liverpool in the final.

Klopp recently described Alonso as a standout coach of the new generation in a possible endorsement of his replacement, while the Spaniard is both the bookies' and fans' choice to step into the dugout at Anfield.

Now the Reds' right back Bradley has got in on the praise for Alonso — albeit while discussing his playing ability rather than coaching.

In a video of for the Premier League’s official YouTube channel, the Northern Ireland international was asked to rate hypothetical three vs three battles involving current and former Liverpool stars.

Though Bradley picked a team including himself, Steven Gerrard and Harvey Elliott over one with Alonso alongside Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah, he still gave special mention to the former midfield playmaker's ability.

“He was silly as well,” Bradley said of Alonso. “I’ve seen some clips of him at Bayer Leverkusen hitting pings, he’s still got it. It’s mental. He’s unbelievable.”

Alonso spent five years at Liverpool as a player, joining the team under Rafa Benitez back in a transfer from Real Sociedad back in 2004.

He went on to make 210 competitive appearances for the Reds, while playing a key role in the 2005 Champions League and 2006 FA Cup wins.

Alonso to Liverpool?

Alonso is under contract at Leverkusen until 2026 and has stayed coy on his future, at least publicly, so far.

Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has insisted that he believes his manager will honour his contract. However, both Liverpool and Bayern Munich are expected to make offers for the highly rated coach.

Alonso is known to still have a strong connection to Liverpool as both a club and city. It has been reported that he would be unlikely to turn down the opportunity to at least discuss terms with the Reds, but remains focussed on Leverkusen's potentially historic season right now.