The analysis presented in Andrew Beasley’s article sheds light on a critical tactical dilemma facing Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool, particularly concerning the struggles on the right side of the pitch. Here’s a closer look at the key points discussed and potential solutions:

Tactical Missteps at the Emirates: The defeat against Arsenal highlighted issues with Liverpool’s right-sided play, stemming from a lack of cohesion and familiarity among the players. Klopp’s selection of Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo in unfamiliar roles contributed to the team’s disjointed performance.

Choice of Personnel: There has been debate over Klopp’s decision to deploy Gakpo, a player with limited experience on the right wing, in a crucial match. The statistics presented in the analysis underscore Gakpo’s struggles to make an impact from this position, raising questions about his effectiveness in unfamiliar roles.

Unlocking Gakpo’s Potential: Gakpo’s talents may be best utilised on the left wing, where he excelled with PSV Eindhoven. Data suggests a significant difference in his productivity when playing on the left compared to other positions. Klopp’s reluctance to deploy Gakpo in his preferred role has puzzled observers.

Path Forward for Liverpool: With Mohamed Salah’s imminent return, there’s an opportunity for Klopp to reevaluate his tactical approach and consider deploying Gakpo in his preferred position on the left wing. This could revitalise Liverpool’s attacking dynamics and address the inconsistencies that have plagued their season.

In conclusion, Klopp faces a crucial decision in optimising Liverpool’s tactical setup to overcome their right-side struggles. By leveraging Gakpo’s strengths on the left wing and making more considered selections, Liverpool can unlock new dimensions in their play and mount a formidable challenge for the Premier League title.