Liverpool signed Cody Gakpo during the January transfer window, and he has proven to be an impressive acquisition so far.
Cody Gakpo made his name at PSV Eindhoven as a second striker. But he has been handed the role of a centre-forward under Jurgen Klopp. The Dutch international has excelled in his new role and has now opened up on the changes and challenges of playing as a centre forward.
Gakpo has revealed in an interview with Voetbal International (h/t Soccer News) that he is enjoying himself at Liverpool, and he is hoping to get better with experience and time. He also added that Klopp looks at him as an attacker and he is versatile enough to operate in a number of areas.
“My feeling is good. I can look back on a good preparation and start of the season, in which I played in different positions. Of course things can always be better, that’s how I am wired, but I felt good and I’m enjoying myself in Liverpool. I came halfway through the season and there’s a lot to think about. Everyone at the club helped me a lot, including Virgil van Dijk who showed me the ropes, and I am very grateful to him for that.
“In the beginning it always takes some getting used to when you are in a different position, but then it is also important to pick it up quickly and show that I am versatile as a player. You just want to play and be of value, it doesn’t matter where. The trainer sees me as an attacker, but I can also bring those attacking impulses from midfield. That’s the reason I also make minutes there.
“We also play very dynamically, so that we have the space to change positions. This often happens naturally. Developing myself in several areas also suits me as a person. That’s how I am, and that also applies to my development on the field. That also reflects on how I am as a player, that it is important for me to become a more complete player,” Gakpo concluded.
Gakpo is dynamic enough to add goals and creativity to the side, and he could be a real asset for Liverpool in the coming seasons. He is only going to get better with experience and coaching. He could develop into a world-class player for the Reds.
The Dutchman has the physicality and technical attributes to be the ideal long-term replacement for Roberto Firmino, who had a similar role and impact at Liverpool. His impressive performances have kept out a natural centre forward like Darwin Nunez from the side as well.
The Uruguayan international has not been a regular starter since they arrival of the Dutchman and Gakpo will be hoping to impress further and establish himself as an indispensable asset for Liverpool and Klopp. The Reds will be pretty impressed with how their January signing has performed so far, and they will look to unlock his true potential in the coming seasons.
His ability to slot into multiple roles and perform at a high level will allow Klopp to shuffle his pack from time to time and keep the players fresh. His versatility makes him an asset for Liverpool, and the transfer has looked like a wise investment so far.
