Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has claimed that new signing Cody Gakpo is a ‘sensational’ finisher.
Gakpo is yet to score in four games since his move from PSV Eindhoven. But in quotes from The Athletic, Klopp has insisted that he’s happy with his latest addition.
“You can say we bought a striker and you talk about his defending, but his defending in this central position is outstanding, it’s what we need,” said the Liverpool manager.
“He is a sensational finisher, his shooting from distance is outstanding, but in the games so far he has been in a bit of a rush. He has a long-term contract here and I am completely happy.”
Klopp also gave a sarcastic nod to people who are judging Gakpo after four games in a dysfunctional side.
“People say he didn’t score but coming as a striker in our team at this moment ‘congratulations!’ and then getting judged because you don’t score, that’s really cool,” he said. “Internally it is all fine and he is fine. He is a smart boy, he really wants to learn and is a really good listener.”
Gakpo yet to get started at Liverpool
If Gakpo is indeed a sensational finisher, then he’s yet to show this at Liverpool. With the Reds carrying virtually zero threat right now though, that isn’t a huge surprise.
It would have been nice had he hit the ground running in Luis Diaz-esque fashion. Liverpool could really do with that right now. But at the same time, there’s no rush for him to explode.
As Klopp points out, he’s at Anfield for the long haul. Just twenty-three, Gakpo has plenty of time to develop into a top player for the Reds.
Certainly, once all of Klopp’s attacking options are back fit, the Dutchman should find the going a little easier. Yes, he may see his minutes reduced, but it should benefit him from playing alongside a full Liverpool attack.
It’s likely that with Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and Roberto Firmino all injured, Klopp isn’t able to use Gakpo exactly where he wants him too.
As a result, we probably won’t see the best of the 23-year-old for a little while. In the meantime, it would be nice if we could get a look at what Klopp is raving about over the next few matches.
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