Liverpool star Darwin Nunez backs Cody Gakpo to be a success at Anfield
After an initial tough run of six games for Liverpool, the Reds’ only January signing, Cody Gakpo scored his first goal in new colours in his seventh appearance. What better occasion than the Merseyside Derby to get your first goal for Liverpool? After his goal against Everton, Gakpo joined his national team captain Virgil van Dijk in getting their first goal for the Reds in a Merseyside Derby.
Cody narrowly escaped the ‘007’ Hall of Shame which came into existence thanks to Sky Germany’s Coverage of Jadon Sancho’s time at Manchester United last season indicating that the player has zero goals and as many assists in seven appearances for the team.
Even though Gakpo made smart runs and was good on the ball in earlier games, it was only the elusive finish which was lacking for so long. However, it had to come, and the goal came in typical Liverpool fashion. Fast counter with Trent Alexander-Arnold playing the ball into the box for Gakpo to just put the finishing touch on it.
Speaking of Gakpo, Darwin Nunez had only positives to say and envisioned the 23-year-old Dutchman to be a fine success here at Merseyside. Here is what the Uruguayan had to say about Gakpo via Liverpool Echo:
“For example, Gakpo is a quality player and has a lot of class. He’s physically strong too. I think he’ll be able to make people very happy at Liverpool.”
“You have to also understand that he’s come here at a time when we’re not in the best of form and he will need time to settle in too.”
“I think he’s done well in the games he’s featured in so far. I hope that with time I’ll develop a great understanding and then go on to bring some joy to the Liverpool fans.”
Gakpo could be a star at the Reds
Funnily enough, all of what he had to say to describe Gakpo surely applies to him as well. Both players have arrived at the club at a time when we are undergoing a transition and understandably, it is tough to adjust to the needs of a new environment in such conditions.
However, as Darwin said, with adequate time, both players can settle in and get going at full throttle. We have seen what Nunez is capable of on the counter, and in the World Cup, Gakpo also showed the levels he is capable of displaying.
Gakpo has been utilised in multiple positions already in just the seven games he has featured in which could take time to adjust to. However, one would hope that with time, Cody has a better understanding of what the team requires of him, and also, he will start in a certain position instead of shuffling between the left wing and the central channel.
In conclusion, with Darwin Nunez’s endorsement and Cody Gakpo’s promising talent, Liverpool fans can anticipate a bright future for the young forwards at Anfield.
