Arne Slot responds when asked if Cody Gakpo is ‘angry’ due to his lack of game time for Liverpool this season

Add as preferred source on Google

Cody Gakpo got his first start under Arne Slot as Liverpool downed AC Milan 3-1 at the San Siro in a UEFA Champions League group stage clash.

Christian Pulisic put the home side ahead with a well-taken goal, but Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai all struck for Liverpool to complete a famous comeback in Italy.

Gakpo didn’t get his name on the scoresheet but notched up an assist for Szoboszlai’s goal as he emerged as one of the best players on the pitch for the away side.

It remains to be seen if he keeps his place in the team for the Reds’ clash against Bournemouth, with Luis Diaz competing with him for a spot in the left flank.

And now, Arne Slot has shared what he really thinks about the competition between the two Liverpool players.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot makes honest claim on Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz

When asked at a press conference if Gakpo’s dazzling display against Milan came out of ‘anger’ after not starting any of Liverpool’s four Premier League games so far, Slot provided a rather straightforward response.

He said: “His game might have come from anger but you don’t need anger to play in the best possible way.

“I think he benefits from his own quality, we know how special he is, and from the players around him and the structure.”

Slot also spoke about Diaz’s contributions this season, suggesting that competition for places is natural for a club like Liverpool.

He continued: That made for him a great performance [vs Milan]. But the one he is in competition with [Diaz] has some good performances as well so it’s all about the team.”

Read More: Paul Merson predicts the scoreline when Liverpool face Bournemouth on Saturday

Gakpo vs Diaz a good selection headache to have

Diaz has already scored thrice this season and has started each of Liverpool’s four Premier League games this season, notably scoring a brace against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the 3-0 win.

Gakpo, on the other hand, has played just 82 minutes of Premier League football this season, with each of his four appearances coming as a substitute.

Paul Merson feels Gakpo must start against Bournemouth as it would be harsh to drop the Dutchman after his fantastic showing against Milan.

However, Slot has thus far been reluctant to make too many changes to his team, so it remains to be seen who gets the nod against Bournemouth.