Liverpool star Cody Gakpo highlighted the defensive requirement from the attacking players as an important part of the modern game. Gakpo has enjoyed fine form despite gaining limited opportunities at the start of the season while competing with Luis Diaz.
Both Gakpo and Diaz have played a pivotal role for Liverpool, dominating the left flank in the offensive phases consistently. The attacking duo provide tireless shifts whenever they receive the opportunity, tracking back opponents to help their fullback and midfielders.
The Reds have won 11 out of 12 games in all competitions so far this season, conceding only five goals. Head coach Arne Slot has gradually improved the structure of the team with his unique tactical style, improving game control.
At the same time, Liverpool attackers have enjoyed the attacking freedom similar to what they cherished under legendary Jurgen Klopp. The Reds have not reached their best form but managed to maintain their winning run which is a good sign.
Gakpo told Liverpoolfc.com that defending is a crucial aspect of modern football for an attacking player alongside regular goal contribution. He said:
“As an attacking player, defending is always the last thing you think about. But in football nowadays it’s so important that you are there to help the team. Sometimes it’s not that fun as an attacker because that’s why you are an attacker, but I think everybody in our squad is aware of the importance of it and maybe that’s what makes us that good at it at the moment. We have to keep doing that and I think we can even do it a little bit better at some moments. We have to work on that as well, keep on improving and then at the other end show our attacking qualities as well.”
Gakpo has played 539 minutes from 12 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists. Nevertheless, the Dutch international will gain a lot of first-team appearances as the congested fixture period pushes the squad depth.
Liverpool will play Arsenal in the Premier League game at Emirates with big consequences for the title race. Gakpo and his teammates have enjoyed continuity as few players departed and joined the club in the transfer window.
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They need to take full advantage of the team chemistry they have built, working tirelessly for each other in both the defensive and offensive phases of the game. Liverpool fans admire Gakpo’s tenacity and understand that there are more goals and assists to follow as the Dutchman continues to shine in his prime.
