The beginning of the Premier League season has been a source of frustration for Liverpool’s forward, Cody Gakpo.
Cody Gakpo acknowledges the responsibility of improving his performance after a frustrating start to his Liverpool season. He emphasizes that the team isn’t getting carried away by their strong initial results.
In Liverpool’s first three Premier League games, Gakpo, who started each match, was substituted before the 67-minute mark. Unlike the other four senior forwards in the squad, he has yet to score this season. His effectiveness has been hindered by playing in an impromptu midfield role against Chelsea and Bournemouth. When he was restored to the central attacking position against Newcastle United, he was shifted to the left flank due to Virgil van Dijk’s early red card.
While he is willing to contribute in midfield at Jurgen Klopp’s request, Gakpo acknowledges that he is still adjusting to this position.
“I think it’s helpful for me and also for the team when it’s needed, but I think at the end it’s just about what is the best for the team to win the game,” he said. “I think I played now in the eight and the nine. It’s just for me to improve in both positions. Obviously, I played last season a lot as a nine, so that’s where I’m a little bit more used to playing. As an eight as well, I can improve and then I can help the team more.”
The recent acquisition of Wataru Endo and the return to fitness of Stefan Bajcetic have eased the demand on Gakpo to play in midfield. Liverpool is also hopeful of signing his compatriot, Ryan Gravenberch, from Bayern Munich before the transfer deadline on Friday.
Liverpool has started the season with seven points out of nine, including two games against likely top-four rivals. Gakpo believes the team has performed well but emphasizes the need for continuous improvement.
“I think we did quite well. Of course, there’s room for improvement, but to get a point at Stamford Bridge is still something to work with. And then two wins in a row are great, especially the last one (at Newcastle), it was really nice. The mood was good, of course, but I think everybody realizes it’s just the beginning of the season, and we have to keep going. It’s not like we won two games, and it’s done. We have to keep going, and we are hungry for more.”
Liverpool returns to Anfield for the first time since their comeback victory against Bournemouth two weeks ago when they face Aston Villa on Sunday. Gakpo emphasizes the importance of home fans in that win and is looking forward to their support against Aston Villa.