Liverpool great Phil Thompson has weighed in on the forthcoming match against Arsenal, pushing Jurgen Klopp to pick Cody Gakpo over Darwin Nunez.
Thompson believes the Dutch attacker adds a new and dangerous threat to the team, justifying a change in the starting lineup. Darwin started up front alongside Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz in our 0-0 league draw with Manchester United. Given the game’s unsatisfactory attacking performance, manager Jurgen Klopp made team changes against West Ham United.
Nunez to the wing, Cody in front. What was the result, you ask? A goal. That is a very good one. Gakpo should keep his position in the starting XI. This season, he has seven goals and two assists while largely coming off the bench.
Liverpool veteran Phil Thompson believes Cody Gakpo will start against Arsenal.
Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo might both start on the left wing with the Uruguayan.
Thompson recently aired his concerns about Nunez’s current form on talkSPORT, stating that the Uruguayan striker has to refocus on his fundamentals, notably his shooting talents. Thompson also underlined the necessity of Nunez returning to his origins and rediscovering his flair for shooting from a variety of positions on the pitch, with Gakpo possibly taking his place.
“He’s [Nunez] forgotten what he’s best at, which is taking shots from anywhere, and he’s not doing it anymore.” As a result, he must return to his fundamentals. But I believe Cody Gakpo must be on the manager’s radar, particularly for the Arsenal game.”
Is Cody to make his debut against the Gunners?
Despite few Premier League appearances this season, Gakpo has demonstrated his ability with two goals for Liverpool, as well as performances in the Europa League and EFL Cup. Thompson sees Gakpo as a feasible alternative, adding a new dimension to Liverpool’s assault and maybe causing issues for Arsenal’s defense.
While Thompson recognizes Nunez’s previous achievements and relationships, his idea represents the dynamic nature of the sport, where form and effectiveness in the present time take precedence. The request for Gakpo’s inclusion demonstrates the iconic Liverpool figure’s faith in the Dutch forward’s capacity to make an impression when given the chance.
As the anticipation for the Arsenal match grows, Klopp must make the tactical decision of selecting his starting team. Thompson’s thoughts add a fascinating layer to the debate, leaving Liverpool fans curious to see if Gakpo gets the nod and if the alteration pays off against a formidable opponent like Arsenal, who have given the fewest goals in the league this season.
Cody Gakpo was unquestionably outstanding against West Ham United.
Klopp must make a tactical choice that could reinvigorate Liverpool’s offense.