Cody Gakpo has relished his opportunity to lead the line for Liverpool since his January arrival, insisting that the role “suits” his attributes. The Dutchman was one of the leading lights in the Reds’ late revival towards the end of the season, notching seven goals from the centre-forward position following his £37 million move from PSV. Speaking ahead of his side’s Nations League semi-final clash with Croatia, Gakpo revealed he is “convinced” that being the focal point of an attack is good for his game and that other managers had tried to move him there in the past. He explained that Guus Hiddink and Roger Schmidt had both suggested he become a striker or false No. 9 at PSV, but he had been stubborn and wanted to remain on the left flank. However, after playing more centrally during the World Cup, Gakpo has now embraced the role at Liverpool and is excited to get better in the position in the near future.
The striker admitted that he found it “difficult” to settle in at his new club initially, with circumstances making it tricky early on. However, Gakpo has since gone on to make a big impact for the Reds, becoming a key component in the side as they racked up seven straight wins towards the end of the season. A well-taken brace in the memorable 7-0 thrashing of Man United was an obvious standout moment, and the forward will be hoping there is plenty more to come in his first full season at the club.