The Cody Gakpo debate. There’s been plenty of discussion over the Netherlands forward over the past week, but his performance against Scotland on Friday has provided a clue as to where his long-term future should be in Liverpool’s system.
He helped his side to a 4-0 victory over the Andy Robertson-led side, registering two assists in the process. Back in his preferred position on the left flank, Gakpo was able to make much more of an impact on the game, with one of his assists a well-aimed cross that Darwin Núñez would benefit from.
If Jürgen Klopp was watching, there’s a chance that Gakpo is already being considered for a position switch.
Despite the criticism on social media, with some even coming from Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, Gakpo can still provide value to this Liverpool team. On one side of the debate are those that think his style of play is simply too slow to succeed on Merseyside. There are times when you would hope he is more incisive with his final ball, but I feel like it’s too early to write him off, especially given his production.
Despite his finishing not looking as convincing as some others in the squad, he has scored nine goals from 9.4 xG (expected goals) this season. That’s only a small under-performance and one that might surprise a few.
Gakpo was also best in the role as the provider for PSV Eindhoven before his $47m (£37m/€43m). He registered 25 assists in his last 41 games across his final two seasons in the Eredivisie, while finding the net on 21 occasions. Liverpool hasn’t been looking to use him in this role enough.
