Liverpool continued their unbeaten start to the Premier League season with a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth on the road on Sunday afternoon.
The Reds suffered a 3-2 loss to the Cherries at the Vitality Stadium last term and they managed to avenge the defeat through Alexander Isak’s solitary goal yesterday.
Florian Wirtz provided the assist after the ball deflected into Isak’s path, but the goal was largely created by a tremendous run and cross by Cody Gakpo from the right flank.
The Dutchman started as the right winger yesterday. He rode challenges from two Cherries players before delivering a fine cross which contributed to Isak finding the net.
Overall, Gakpo provided three key passes for the Merseyside giants, and also worked hard off the ball with eight duels won. It was a solid showing from the Netherlands ace, who had 51 touches in the game.
Liverpool were open to parting ways with Gakpo for the right price this summer, and it was widely known that league rivals Manchester City were keen on signing him before the transfer deadline.
However, a deal did not materialise in the end with the Reds failing to find a suitable replacement. It has proved a blessing in disguise, given Gakpo has been one of the best performers this campaign.
The former PSV man has already notched up two goals and four assists in just six matches for the Reds this campaign, and he now appears undroppable under manager Andoni Iraola, in our opinion.
There were question marks over where Gakpo could play with new signing Bradley Barcola expected to start on the left wing, and the Dutchman showed the way yesterday with a good outing from the right wing.
The 27-year-old is not a natural from the position and looks more comfortable as a left winger or upfront, but he could make the role his own with Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz yet to establish themselves.
Ngumoha is still inexperienced at the highest level, while Munoz has yet to adapt to the demands of the Premier League. Hence, Gakpo looks undroppable and an indispensable figure in the XI under…..
