Jurgen Klopp Praises Cody Gakpo’s Versatility After Unexpected Midfield Role

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has praised the versatility of forward Cody Gakpo after he was forced to play in midfield due to injuries and rotation in the early stages of the season. Gakpo has since returned to his more typical role as a centre forward, and Klopp has praised his ability to adapt to the new role.
Gakpo has four goals to his name so far this season, and opened the scoring away at Bournemouth in Wednesday’s League Cup clash. Speaking ahead of the trip to Luton, Klopp admitted Gakpo’s midfield appearances weren’t planned, but that he is “smart” enough to play the role to the required standard.
“Since Cody’s here, he arrived in his position and now starting the season he played in midfield,” Klopp told the media in his pre-Luton press conference. “If we had everybody available it was never the plan for us to put Cody there, we just knew he can play there.”
Klopp went on to explain that Gakpo is a “super-smart player” who can adapt to any role, and that his versatility is a huge asset for the team. “He is a top, top, top player and a really good character as well so it is really helpful,” said Klopp. “The boys up front, they all like each other. There’s not this battle between ‘how will I start’, they all like each other. They know they can all play together and that’s really important, and they enjoy it a lot, they all want to start but if you don’t start they know they will come on, and Cody’s a very important part of that.”
Gakpo’s ability to play in multiple positions has been invaluable for Liverpool this season, as it has allowed them to rotate their squad and keep players fresh. His versatility has been a key factor in Liverpool’s success this season, and it is clear that Klopp has a lot of faith in Gakpo’s ability to adapt and perform at the highest level.
The Dutchman has been a key part of Liverpool’s attack this season, and his injury prior to the international break was a huge blow for the team. However, Gakpo has since returned to action and is once again proving his worth as an important member of the squad.
Gakpo’s versatility is a huge asset for Liverpool, and it is clear that Klopp values his ability to play multiple roles. His ability to adapt and perform at the highest level is invaluable for the team, and it is clear that Gakpo will continue to be an important part of Liverpool’s success this season.