Cody Gakpo, a January acquisition, was given the opportunity to make his Liverpool debut in the FA Cup match against Wolves. Jurgen Klopp discussed the Dutchman’s performance in the contest.
After a subdued Liverpool debut, Jurgen Klopp has said that Cody Gakpo needs to get into “better positions.”
The Dutch attacker, who had a really impressive first half of the season with PSV, in which he scored 13 goals and registered 17 assists, agreed to a £37 million transfer to Anfield earlier this month. At the World Cup in Qatar, he attracted attention for the Netherlands as well.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
The forward has provided the Reds an alternative attacking option as they attempt to bounce back from a lackluster season debut.
Gakpo received his FA Cup debut on Saturday night during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield, despite the fact that he is yet to make his Premier League debut.
With only a few minutes left in the match, he was substituted by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain after failing to register a goal. After the game, Klopp discussed Gakpo’s efforts and said that the forward needs to put himself in more dangerous situations, but was confident that he would do so.
In an interview with ITV, he stated: “He blended into the game. A first step was not simple.
“It won’t be perfect, but he showed promising indicators. He needs to be placed in better situations, but that will come no doubt.”
The early success of Gakpo’s new partner Luis Diaz at Anfield, who put on a streak of electrifying displays after being acquired from Porto a year ago, will unavoidably be compared to that of the Colombian.
Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, argued that it was unfair to compare the two because the Dutchman might require more time to adapt.
I’m really positive about him [Gakpo], the German declared prior to the 2-2 tie with Wolves. I’m not sure if comparing it to Diaz Impact is useful.
“Last year, we had a little flexibility. He was quite helpful because we were having problems with injuries as well. Right now, it will continue to remain that way.
“Cody is given the same time as the other players. It’s not that simple; you have to establish yourself offensively. He is a different league altogether. That’s always challenging. It was also for Lucho Diaz, but there’s no need to compare the two. Without a doubt, we anticipate a favorable effect.”
Gakpo would undoubtedly strive for a better experience when he has another chance. The next time Liverpool plays in the Premier League, they will take on an improved Brighton.
After being held to a draw by the Midlands team, they will have to face Wolves in a rerun. Toti Gomes’ goal was controversially deemed offside, costing Julien Lopetegui’s team what they believed to be the victory.