In January 2023, Cody Gakpo, a Dutch player, was acquired by Liverpool from PSV and assigned to the left wing position. 

During the previous half-season, he had played 14 Eredivisie games for the Netherlands team, contributing nine goals and 12 assists in that manner.

However, Jürgen Klopp hasn’t given Liverpool many chances to use that position on the field. Gakpo is typically used through the center when Mohamed Salah plays and Luis Díaz is on the left, but the 24-year-old was given the opportunity against Fulham and he impressed.

He began the season as an aggressive number eight in midfield for Liverpool, although he has also played on the right side of the forward line. Gakpo has always been adaptable.

That helps a player get minutes when he first shows up, but it makes it more difficult to secure a regular spot. This season, Gakpo has mostly been a bit part player, mostly utilized as a substitute and in the Europa League. He hasn’t been seen much playing his preferred position on the left side, though. That hasn’t really aided in his growth.

“I think Cody has been fantastic for the team ever since he joined,” Reds captain Virgil van Dijk said after the match, according to the Liverpool Echo. “He has struggled since he has played a variety of roles.

“He is picking things up. He is and will continue to be a vital member of the team. He was excellent on Sunday, as was Ryan [Gravenberch]. must enter the game and not only score a goal but also have excellent possession.

“Every day, we witness his excellence. “He demonstrated his abilities when given the chance to play, which will come.”

Both Gakpo (14 goals and 5 assists this season across all competitions) and Díaz (13 goals and 4 assists) raise concerns about whether they produce enough goals to be in Liverpool’s undisputed starting lineup. While the former has at least accomplished it in a different nation, the latter has never been as productive as Sadio Mané or Salah at their best.

It remains to be seen if this was an isolated incident brought on by Salah’s injury or if Gakpo will have more opportunities off the left before the season is out. But the raw qualities are there, and there’s a gift to be discovered. It would appear that he took the risk necessary to get another one, with Klopp’s faith being rewarded.