Alexis Mac Allister singles out 'hard-working' Liverpool teammate for praise amidst recent criticism

Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister praised his teammate Cody Gakpo for his work-rate and influence amid recent criticism over performances

Alexis Mac Allister heaped special praise on his Liverpool teammate Cody Gakpo for his hard work and leadership amid criticism. Liverpool beat Sheffield United 3-1 at Anfield to retain the top spot in the Premier League table on Thursday.

Liverpool dominated with 83% possession but failed to extend the 1-0 lead that Darwin Nunez provided in the 17^th minute. The poor composure in front of the goal proved costly when the Blades equalized in the 58^th minute of the game.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp made several substitutions while also bringing on Gakpo to turn the game in their favour. The Dutch international played a crucial role in the Reds’ comeback, scoring the third goal to secure the victory.

Liverpool's Dutch striker #18 Cody Gakpo celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Sheffield United at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on April 4, 2024. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images) — Liverpool striker Cody Gakpo celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Sheffield United at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on April 4, 2024. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

The 24-year-old worked tirelessly since coming on as a substitute and provided a constant threat to Sheffield’s defence. Gakpo faced severe criticism for his performance in the FA Cup loss against Manchester United before the March international break.

Speaking to TNT Sports (h/t Liverpoolfc.com) post-match alongside Gakpo, Mac Allister heaped special praise for his Dutch teammate. He said:

“I’m really happy for this guy [Gakpo], he has been working very, very hard. Today he got his goal and I’m very glad because he’s one of these guys that works very hard and he is always positive and a good leader for the group. So I’m very happy for him and of course for the team.”

Gakpo has made 44 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool, contributing with 14 goals and five assists this season. Despite the criticism, he has played a key role in the Reds’ consistent run of form during the injury crisis.

Gakpo plays like the game is in slow motion.
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) March 17, 2024

Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher particularly criticized Gakpo’s performance after the loss against Man United. Carragher mocked the Dutchman’s pace in a tweet from his official X account amid relentless criticism on social media.

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While constructive criticism is part and parcel of the game, people like Carragher with big platforms should be more careful. The former Liverpool player has faced criticism from the Reds fans for numerous opinions he has voiced this season. Many fans believe he is attempting to stay on good terms with fellow pundits who are mostly former players from rival clubs. Meanwhile, Gakpo has continued to prove his doubters wrong with his versatility, selfless hard work and productivity.