Bolton Wanderers send love to Conor Bradley after father's death

The Northern Ireland international became a fans’ favourite last season after a loan spell with the Whites and has since gone on to impress in the Premier League with the Reds.

Liverpool put out a statement on Saturday evening confirming Mr Bradley had passed away after a long illness.

“The thoughts of everybody at the club are with Conor and all of the Bradley family at this very difficult and sad time,” it read.

“On behalf of Conor, LFC strongly urges that the family's privacy is fully respected at this time.”

The confirmation came just as Evatt was completing his post-match media duties after today’s 1-1 draw against Barnsley.

“I have just heard the news and I am gutted for him and the family – they are a wonderful family and he is an amazing boy,” Evatt said.

“It is really sad. We wish him well, all the best, and we are sending him lots of love.

Mr Bradley had watched his son playing for Bolton last season, where he developed his game to the point he could challenge for a place in Jurgen Klopp’s Premier League XI.

Familiar faces around the club, the Bradley family also travelled to the Papa Johns Trophy final at Wembley in April to see him help Wanderers to a 4-0 win against Plymouth Argyle.

“The family came down here a lot and my thoughts and prayers go to them, I hope they get the time to mourn,” Evatt said.

“It is such a sad event in a young man’s life to lose his father, and I hope he gets all the support and love he needs. I am sure he will because it really is a wonderful family.

“Conor is such a great kid and hopefully he will be given the peace and time to mourn.”