Cody Gakpo: Liverpool Forward Eyeing Up a Starting Spot | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo: A Striking Spark in Liverpool’s Attack

Substitutions That Made a Statement

Well if no one else is doing it, fairs fair. Football is a game of moments and opportunities. Cody Gakpo, the player often chastised in Liverpool red, has seized his recent cameos off the bench to showcase why he should be considered for a starting berth. It’s not just about raw talent, but effective contribution, and Gakpo’s statistical arsenal from his appearances against Atalanta and Crystal Palace screams for attention. There’s been understandable criticism but as the team goes through a bad patch, he’s the one whose showing some drive and real desire to make things happen.

Statistical Significance in Brief Cameos

The narrative around Gakpo has been dominated by a blend of hard data and the less tangible sense of vitality he brings to the pitch. His presence has been a breath of fresh air in a forward line that has recently seemed somewhat stagnant. Against Atalanta, Gakpo’s impressive stats included creating 5 chances with 2 being categorised as big chances, completing 5 dribbles, winning all of his 2 tackles, being fouled 4 times, and emerging victorious in 11 duels. These are not just numbers – they’re indicators of a player who is actively engaging with the game and actually worked on the things he’s been criticised for recently.

Photo: IMAGO

Creating Opportunities When It Counts

In Liverpool’s recent fixtures, finishing genuine scoring opportunities has been akin to mining for precious stones lazily – laborious and requiring finesse that’s been lacking. Gakpo’s brilliance shone through when he set up Curtis Jones for what should have been a goal that levelled. Even in a brief 24-minute window, he managed to complete the most dribbles and created 2 chances, highlighting his keen eye for unlocking defences. The ability to conjure such moments is invaluable, and when they’re woven into the fabric of a player’s game, it’s something that can’t be overlooked.

Energising Liverpool’s Attacking Dynamics

Beyond the cold hard stats, Gakpo’s contribution has been about energy – the kind that infuses life into a team. While other forwards have flickered and faded (which is being generous), he has been a constant source of drive and determination. It’s the combination of energy and end-product that sets a player apart, and this is where Gakpo has excelled. His spirited efforts have not only energised the team upon his introduction, but also the Anfield faithful, who have witnessed the Dutchman’s relentless pursuit of excellence on the field.

Time for a Starting Role?

As the real business end of the Premier League season, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Cody Gakpo is a player with the potential to be a game-changer for Liverpool. His statistical output in limited minutes is not just promising but compelling. With the ability to create, tackle, and energise, he’s making a strong case for a regular starting position. A fresh approach could be the catalyst Liverpool needs, and to be brutally honest, with what we’re seeing from the others….can anyone argue they should be ahead of him right now?