Liverpool’s promising season took a drastic turn when they lost 3-0 to Atalanta at Anfield in the Europa League Quarter-Final on Thursday. The Reds had a disgraceful collective performance, and their European aspirations were dashed after only the first leg.

Despite the vast number of terrible performers, there was one minor bright spot in the night: Cody Gakpo. Now, it could be a simple matter of the Dutchman being the best of a lousy bunch, but I believe he performed well.

GAKPO’s Recent GrowthIn reality, despite Liverpool’s recent struggles, I believe Gakpo has had a lot better few weeks. More particular, his previous three performances have given Liverpool fans reason to be optimistic.

This began with his superb substitute appearance in Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Sheffield United on Thursday. After entering the pitch with the score tied, Gakpo played his part in turning the game on its head, even scoring a goal in the critical victory.

Gakpo also shined in Liverpool’s 2-2 tie with Manchester United on Sunday, and was unquestionably one of the best players.Best of a bad bunch.Gakpo seems considerably more confident last night, despite the team’s poor performance. He was the only player on the pitch who appeared to want to seize control of the game and make something happen.

His game statistics also reflected this.

Gakpo completed the most dribbles (5) on the field while also creating the most chances (5), winning the most tackles (2), fouls (4), and duels (11). When you consider those numbers, it’s difficult to criticize Gakpo’s performance; it’s just a shame that more of the players lacked Gakpo’s intensity and persistence.

ANALYSING GAKPO’S 23-24 SEASON

Gakpo has had a terrible season, continually being tossed from one position to another. He has rarely played in his favored position, thus I find it difficult to blame him too much. It’s evident that his best position is as a false nine, but Jurgen Klopp seemed to prefer both Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota in that role.

As a result, Gakpo has spent the most of his time on the flanks or as one of three center midfielders. Despite this, Gakpo has 14 goals and four assists for the season, which is a respectable return. Especially given that he has only played 43% of Liverpool’s Premier League minutes this season.

Following his January transfer from PSV, Gakpo’s last season was seen as a big success. This season, despite playing less, his output has increased, but he is under greater scrutiny than ever before. Personally, I believe it is due to his entire game not being as strong, and his extreme lack of confidence, as highlighted by Klopp, will undoubtedly impede his progress.

In certain respects, he reminds me of Jordan Henderson and Roberto Firmino, both of whom were system players. He frequently compromises his own game to pull others into the game, but when his overall game suffers, it can be immediately identified as missing – especially in large games.

I agree that Gakpo has been frustrating at times this season, but some supporters have gone too with their criticism. I am confident that he has a future at Liverpool, and even at the age of 24, he has the potential to be extremely successful there.