Move over Mo - Liverpool’s newest UNDROPPABLE player
What has been so refreshing as a Liverpool fan this season is the players we know who have undeniable talent stepping up.
Last season, the likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai were showing hints of their greatness but not in a consistent format.
But Arne Slot has unlocked something. A confidence which exudes from almost every team member.
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Liverpool play with no fear. There is a clear message of urgency and fight which Slot has enrolled and the players have picked up this call and ran with it.
One player however has exceeded everyone's expectations recently through his vital contributions at big moments.
Gakpo steps up
When Cody Gakpo was signed from PSV for £35 million after his exceptional performances at the 2022 World Cup, Reds fans couldn’t believe how straightforward and cheap the transfer was.
A highly sought after project, Gakpo’s pressing and attacking intent was evident.
But when employed as a number 9, he really failed to make an impact for the Reds. He showed exciting bits such as his double in the 7-0 drubbing of Manchester United, but again lacked that consistency which puts him on the levels of Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz.
But Slot has unearthed a different beast this season. Employing Cody on the left-wing in his natural position has been a stroke of brilliance.
He has provided some crucial goals so far including the opener against Manchester City, the second against Real Madrid and the two equalisers firstly against Fulham and then against Leicester on Boxing Day.
It has also allowed Luis Diaz to move into the striker role, which has paid dividends for both.
Cody receives his plaudits
Cody’s impact has been remarkable.
And this has been recognised by many. Robbie Earle and Robbie Mustoe on their podcast The 2 Robbies for NBC in particular have praised Gakpo’s efforts this season.
They state, “Cody Gakpo is my under-appreciated performer. He has a knack of scoring goals. Important goals which change the games.”
“He is a consistent performer and reliable player. He has stepped up when the team is struggling.”
These comments bare the truth. Boxing Day is a clear example. When players like Mo Salah, Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz are unable to contribute; Gakpo has stepped up.
The Leicester goal was a thing of beauty and right before half-time which gave Slot’s men the confidence and belief that they could go on and win the game.
Earle also commented on Slot’s ability to develop talent. Cody shows more hunger to pierce defenders, constantly looking to play the ball forward and penetrate the back-line.
Liverpool have a long way to go this season if they want to win any silverware, but with Gakpo and others in the form of their lives, it will be hard to stop them.
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