Pundit Ian Wright was left stunned by the pace of Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo against Everton.
Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast for The Ringer, the former Arsenal legend claimed he was shocked by the 23-year-old’s burst of acceleration, having not seen him utilise his speed for the Reds before.
“I didn’t realise that pace!” Wright said.
“He glided past like three or four players!”
During the Merseyside derby, the Dutchman scored his first goal for Jurgen Klopp’s side in a commanding 2-0 display against the Toffees.
Playing a deeper role as centre-forward, Gakpo was able to pick up the ball – like Roberto Firmino used to – and run at the opposition defence, in which he looked far more confident doing so compared to recent weeks.
Wright amazed by Gakpo’s turn of pace
Although we saw glimpses of his speed in his first few weeks at Anfield, the victory over Everton really demonstrated just how quick the attacker is.
Instead of being isolated up top, the Netherlands international played as a deep-lying forward.
This meant he could drop into the space just ahead of the midfield, giving him time to turn and run at the opposition.
This is where he really excelled, gliding past numerous players with the ball glued tightly to his feet.
As a result, Jamie Carragher claimed Gakpo could be the heir to Firmino at Liverpool – illustrating similar styles of play.
Having dominated with this move, the youngster will be far more confident now going forward.
Therefore, hopefully we see this week-in week-out at Anfield.